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Window Sash Repairs Tips From The Best In The Industry
Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping


Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This problem can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed 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 need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though 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 cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. repair my windows and doors can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.

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