Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (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 is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

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

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking window repair near me of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.


Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

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

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended 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 one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.