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What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize It
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated 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 fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After these details has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports 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. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.


Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ 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 cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.

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