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Window Sash Repairs 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners
Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase 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 was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide 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 parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.


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. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to 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/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.

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