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10 Window Sash Repairs Tricks All Experts Recommend
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

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

window repair stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them 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 stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

window repair near me is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important 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 part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. 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 removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. 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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