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Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Window Sash Repairs
window repairs inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass 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 that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two 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 stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, window repairs is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.


Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. 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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