Why Adding Window Sash Repairs To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.


After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes 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 with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.