What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Use Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.


It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

window repairs to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.