How to Replace a Sash Window

Lead Image for How to Replace a Sash Window
  • 4-8 hours
  • Advanced
  • 200-450
What You'll Need
Sash window kit
Measuring tape
Hammer
Screw driver
Nails
Goggles
Pry bar
What You'll Need
Sash window kit
Measuring tape
Hammer
Screw driver
Nails
Goggles
Pry bar

Replacing a sash window can be a challenging job if you have never done it before. Here are a few steps to help guide you through the purchase of the window sash kit, the removal of the old one, and the installation of the new one.

Purchase a New Sash Window Kit

The first thing that you will need to do is measure the inside of the window to find out the size of your replacement kit. To measure the width, you will need to go from one side jamb inside to the other one. For the height measurements, you will want to measure from the inside of the sill to the inside of the head. Be sure to write these measurements down so when you get to the hardware store you can either look up the right kit or have someone direct you. It is especially important if you are ordering a kit online. While they are convenient to purchase, they are hard to return so the correct measurements are necessary.

Remove the Broken or Existing Sash

Once you find the right replacement kit, you will need to remove the sash that is already in place. You will want to carefully twist the lower part of the sash to remove it from the window. Use a pry bar then to get out any of the stops that may be inside. Next, you will need to take off the upper sash the same way that you removed the other one, by twisting it off carefully.

Remove Hardware

When you have gotten the sashes off, you will need to use a screwdriver or a pry bar to take off any of the hardware that is left. Most of it should come out pretty easily from the side jambs. Save the old hardware is still intact in case the new replacement kit does not have all of the pieces that you may need.

Install New Sash

Finally, you will want to install the new sash. Use either the drill or a screwdriver to install the jamb brackets into the frame of the window. Find any of the hardware that came with the jamb brackets. Install the jamb liners and hardware using the screwdriver into the jamb brackets. Then if there is any extra hardware that needs to be installed according to the directions you can install that now. You can lift the upper sash onto the track and push it in and then install the lower sash onto the appropriate track. If there were stops inside, then you will want to use nails to reinstall any that need to be put back into place.