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A How-To Guide For Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.


Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once sneak a peek here has fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may 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 a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix 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 was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides 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 using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. 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. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.

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