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15 Unexpected Facts About Window Sash Repairs You Didn't Know
Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically 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 last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand 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 width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.


When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors 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 is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If window repair Repair My Windows And Doors on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.

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