Sash Windows Repair: It's Not As Difficult As You Think

· 6 min read
Sash Windows Repair: It's Not As Difficult As You Think

Sash Window Repair

If you have Sash windows that have rotting frames rattle, or poor energy efficiency they can be transformed into smooth operating windows again. It's much cheaper than replacing the entire window.

Remove the window stops and sash cords (the moldings that are in front of the lower sliding sash). Label or label each stop to ensure they can be put back together correctly.

Glass that is damaged

Broken glass is the most crucial part of a sliding glass and should be repaired whenever possible. It does not matter if it's only a damaged glass pane or something more serious like broken window net. This is a safety issue that needs to be dealt with immediately.

Sash windows can be a stunning feature in older properties. If they are maintained properly, they can last for many years. Sash frames made of wood, just like any other natural material exposed to the elements over time, could be damaged and begin to deteriorate. This can cause problems such as draughty homes or water leaks. It could cause the sash to get distorted or warped.

In order to prevent these issues it is crucial to check your sash windows regularly. You should look out for signs of damp or rot such as mildew or mould growing on the wood or, crumbling paint. Also, make sure that the sash is in good working order and free of cracks or broken parts.

If the sash is in good condition but you're experiencing damp rooms, it might be worth considering switching to double glazing. Although this might seem like a major expense, it's less expensive than replacement and will ensure that your home is warmer in winter.

Keeping your sash windows functioning properly is crucial for proper ventilation and allowing you to enjoy the outside view. If your windows aren't fully functional could make your home feel humid, and you could end up paying higher energy bills because of the loss of heat. Additionally, it can be dangerous to open sash windows that don't have functioning locks.

Close the window with a gentle push and move the sash upwards or down to determine whether it's functioning properly. If you are able to do this with ease and without much effort, then the window is in good working order. If you have a sash that is stiff or you are unable to lift the window without a lot of effort, the sash cords will need to be replaced. Pam recommends buying sash cords on the internet. She claims that cotton is more authentic than nylon and will stretch less with time. After the cords have been replaced, it is recommended to grease the pulleys' axles with silicone or Teflon spray, and remove any hardware that has been painted off of the frame of the sash.

Broken Locks

Over time windows in sash may become misaligned to the point that they're no longer able to lock. This can be due to a variety of reasons. It could be that the sash has sagged over time, or perhaps it was painted in an incorrect painting process that caused the alignment to fall off. Sash windows may also require lubrication to prevent corrosion and friction. This maintenance is included in our Window Wellness Service and can be scheduled so that your windows operate smoothly.

To open the sash window which is locked from the outside, you must first disengage the locking mechanism. Then, examine the channel inside the upper frame to make sure there are no obstructions. Also, make sure the upper sash is fully within the channel. If both of these are fine you can try activating the window lock again.

A sash stop that is broken can also cause a sash become stuck. They are located at the top of the window and are designed to stop the sashes from sliding over one the other. There are two kinds of sash stops with protruding bolts as well as dual screws. Dual screws can also be removed with a standard screwdriver. If the sash stop is broken, it will need to be replaced.

It's important to remember that it's also possible for criminals gain entry to a home through the lower sash window, especially in older homes in which single-glazed windows were used. This is due to the fact that a windows that sash aren't equipped with much insulation and it's easy for criminals to get through this gap using a crowbar to open the window. To remedy this, sash windows can be equipped with sash locks which are operated by hand or via key. These locks can be easily installed and offer an additional level of security for your home.

Most hardware stores carry sash window locks that can be easily installed on windows. They are available in a range of different colors to match your windows, and they're a great option for increased security. They can be put on top of the current sash stop or on new sashes.

Cords that are damaged Cords

Old double-hung (two sash) windows often have cotton cords or metal chains that support and keep the weights in balance while lifting them up. Over time, these chains may break and make it difficult to lift or lower the sash. While it might be tempting to replace the entire counterweight system there are options to repair these sash windows without spending hundreds of dollars or more.

First, make a mark on the side of the frame where you'd like to hang the new cord. With a ladder, a friend, and a small amount of sandpaper (120 grit or so) gently scrape the paint back to the wood to get rid of any debris that is floating around and then set the groove. You could use some of the sand paper you removed to assist in cutting the cord however, be careful not to touch any glass.

Once the groove is clean then hammer the nails for the cord to stop it from becoming loose. Once the cord is hung then test it and make any necessary adjustments. When the cord is functioning you can put the sash back into its original position.

Verify that the cords of the upper sash aren't damaged or broken before pulling it back to the sill. It is best to do this before you remove the lower sash as it will significantly reduce the possibility of breaking glass inside the frame.

If the sash cords have not been damaged remove the access panel from the sash channel, and remove the sash weight pocket cover. It is possible to cut away the staff bead from its frame. Take care not to damage the painted finish or the staff bead.

The next step is to Sand the edges of the sash frame where it is affixed to the window jamb to smooth them. This will help reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the window.

The inside stops are typically nailed into place by drilling nails into the sides of the stop. Prise out the narrow parting bead from its groove starting at the top of the frame, and moving down each side. Make use of a large chisel to pry out the bead. After reinstalling the interior stoppers, ensure they are securely fitted but not too tightly to the sash. This will prevent them from restricting operation or shaking. Reinstall the staff bead and the parting strip by aligning the nails to ensure that they go back into the original holes. Apply a caulk between the staff bead and the box to reduce the risk of draughts. Then, reinstall the sash, making sure it moves easily.

Broken Frames

Sash windows are beautiful and can make a house stand out. However, their age means they are more susceptible to a variety of issues, like rattles and draughts. This is especially so if they are not maintained properly. These problems can be easily solved by a professional repair service for windows that have sash.

A damaged frame on a sash window can cause serious security issues in the event that it allows people to gain access to your home through the window. It's not something you would want to do, so it's recommended to repair these issues as quickly as you can.


In many cases, a damaged frame on your sash window means you need to replace the glass pane. This is not as expensive as you think, since glass replacement is available online at a fraction of the cost. This is also a great opportunity to upgrade your windows from single-glazed to double glazed and save money on your energy bills.

window repair  to act when you see signs of water damage, for example paint bubbles or wood rot on your sash windows. These issues could lead to more severe issues if they are not addressed. It is recommended to contact an expert repair service for sash immediately to restore the damaged parts of your windows.

The most frequent issue with windows with sash is that they become draughty, because of the gap between the individual sashes. This can be extremely uncomfortable and can also increase your energy bill. To prevent this from happening, your Tasker will be able to close up any gaps between the sashes, which will block draughts as well as cold air from entering your home.

Your Tasker will first take off the "staff bead" that is the one that holds the sash's bottom. They are usually painted and nailed into place, but can be removed with the help of a small knife and a pry-bar. Once the beads on the staff have been removed, the Tasker can begin to remove the upper sash. They'll be sure to re-knot the chains or cords and put them in a bag with a label. The Tasker will then employ the heat gun to melt the old putty, and scrape it off.