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5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Professionals
Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

window repair near me Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming 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 allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in 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 screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.


To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread 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 adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If window repairs near me haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.

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