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10 Things People Get Wrong Concerning Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become too much.

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

double glazed window repair Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to 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 and other problems. To fix it, begin 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). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

When double glazed window repair is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. 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 homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.


After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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