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Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces 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 could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This can be due to various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.


After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in 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 usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/gravesend-windowrepair/