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10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window 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, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. upvc window repair can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.


The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

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

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.

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