8 Tips For Boosting Your Window Sash Repairs Game Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. double glazing repairs Richmond may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.


After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.