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The Best Window Sash Repairs That Gurus Use 3 Things
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install window repairs (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.


It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen 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 of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later window repair used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As window repair , these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold 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 typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.

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