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What Experts Say You Should Know
Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. Hoddesdon window repair will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.


Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been 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 to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.