How Adding A Window Sash Repairs To Your Life's Journey Will Make The Impact Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window 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 so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. 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 this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.


It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used 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 weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.