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10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips
Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then 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). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve 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 sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.


When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards 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 attached by nails or screws and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. upvc windows repair are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. 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 old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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