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Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From Professionals
Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore 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 most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

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

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely 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 difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

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 new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.


window repair and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. visit this web-site can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once window repair is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting 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 snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.

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