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The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and 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 most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces 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 could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If Barnet window repair becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length 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 older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by 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 crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.