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The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start 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). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.

window repairs

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once 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 the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you 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 cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.


After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in 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 either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.

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