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10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend
Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking window repair near me of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. 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 just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable 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 usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.


Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.

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