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The Most Popular Window Sash Repairs The Gurus Are Using 3 Things
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass 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, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with 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 it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be due to many factors such as 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 eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from 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).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. upvc window repairs of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. this post is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.


After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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