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5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Any Budget
Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. window repairs near me 's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate 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 of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords


In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use 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've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.

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