Ethan Clarke
A window sash is the component that encases the glass of a window and allows it to open and close. Depending on the type of window, the sash can be found in different sections. For instance, in a double-hung window, sashes are in the upper and lower sections that slide vertically, whereas in a casement window, the sash is the entire frame that can be cranked outward to open. Replacing a window sash can be a DIY project, but it is important to collect the right materials and take precise measurements before beginning any work. The cost of this home improvement task is generally manageable, with the price of a typical-sized glass unit being around $75 and the labour costing around $50.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the window sash for replacement
Preparing the window sash for replacement involves several steps. First, put on safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to safeguard against broken glass and debris. If the window is still intact, cover it with a cloth or rag before gently tapping the centre with a hammer to loosen any shards. Next, carefully remove any remaining pieces of glass embedded in the putty. If the sash is still in place, it is recommended to take out the putty before extracting the glass.
Now, you must remove the old metal glazing points from the rabbets, the grooves in the sash where the glass sits. Scrape and sand these grooves until you reach the bare wood. Then, apply an exterior primer to this bare wood to prevent the putty from absorbing oils and deteriorating. Once the primer is dry, take a handful of putty and knead it until it becomes warm and malleable. Press this putty into the rabbets, ensuring that they are completely filled.
At this point, you can prepare the new pane of glass. If you are confident in your ability to remove the sash and transport it safely, you can take it to a local glass shop to have a new pane cut at a lower cost. Otherwise, you can contact a glass company to come out and perform the replacement onsite, although this may be more expensive. If you choose to take the sash to a glass shop, ensure that you take precise measurements of your window opening, as mentioned earlier, to ensure a proper fit for the new pane.
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Remove the old window pane
To remove the old window pane, start by taking full measurements of your window opening. This is important prep work that will help you source the right replacement parts.
Next, put on safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from broken glass and debris. If the window is intact but cracked, cover it with a cloth or rag before gently tapping the centre with a hammer to loosen the shards. If there are any remaining pieces, carefully wiggle them free with your gloved hands.
Now, remove the putty using a putty knife. Flatten the blade against the putty with your index finger and maintain this angle as you pull the knife along one side of the pane. Leave a neat crease in the corner, then collect the excess putty. Repeat this process for the remaining sides, setting the blade tip on the crease and retooling as needed.
After removing the putty, pry out the old metal glazing points from the rabbets (the grooves in the sash where the glass sits). Scrape and sand the rabbets down to bare wood. Brush an exterior primer onto the bare wood to prevent the putty from drawing out its oils and shortening its lifespan.
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Clean the window sash
To clean the window sash, the window pane must be removed first. When dealing with a broken pane, cover it with a cloth or rag before tapping it with a hammer to loosen the shards. Put on heavy-duty gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury from broken glass and shards. With gloved hands, wiggle free any pieces that remain embedded in the putty. If the sash is still in the window opening, or the pane has a crack or two but is otherwise intact, remove the putty first, then the glass.
Once the window pane has been removed, it is important to check the frame and sash for any signs of damage. Look for any cracks, warping, or other structural issues that may be preventing the window from closing properly. If you find any problems, they should be addressed before re-installing the glass. It is also a good idea to inspect the weatherstripping around the frame to ensure that it is still sealing properly. If necessary, you can replace any worn or damaged weatherstripping with new material.
Next, clean any residual sealant with a putty knife. Begin by wiping down the frame with a damp cloth to remove any dust or cobwebs that may have settled in the corners. Once the frame is clean, use a soft cloth and glass cleaner to wipe down both sides of the window pane. If there are any tough spots that won’t come off with a cloth, use a putty knife or razor blade to gently scrape them away. When you’re finished cleaning your windows, give them one final polish with a dry cloth.
Finally, check that all parts of your window frame and sash are free from damage or wear and tear. Replace any screws or hinges if needed, and check that your window opens and closes smoothly with no signs of sticking or binding.
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Install the new window pane
To install the new window pane, start by measuring the window sash kit against your window frame. The window sash kit should be slightly smaller than the frame to ensure a proper fit.
Next, prepare the putty by kneading it with your hands until it is warm and malleable. Press the putty into the rabbets—the grooves in the sash where the glass sits—ensuring that they are completely filled.
Now, carefully wiggle the new window pane into the putty, applying even pressure with your fingertips. Continue pushing down until the glass is centred in the opening, leaving about 1/8 inch of putty between the face of the glass and the rabbet. If there are any voids or gaps under the glass, remove the pane, add more putty, and try again.
Once the pane is securely in place, use a putty knife to flatten the putty along the edges of the glass. Set the blade tip in the crease and repeat the tooling process for each side, ensuring that the putty application is not too wide. Scrape away any excess putty with the knife.
Finally, place a glazier's point flat on the glass at the centre of each side of the pane. Fit the tip of the putty knife against the raised shoulders of the glazier's point to secure the pane in place.
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Finish the window sash
Once you have replaced the window pane and sash, there are a few final steps to complete the project. Firstly, measure and cut the stops to fit if necessary. Nail the side and head stops back into place, keeping them snug against the jamb liners. You can use a nail gun or a hammer and nails for this. Ensure the stops are secure and snug against the jamb liners. If needed, apply a small bead of caulk along the edges for a weather-tight seal.
Before you finish, test the window to ensure it is working properly. Open and close both sashes several times to ensure smooth operation. Check that the sashes lock securely when closed. Verify that the weatherstripping makes good contact all around. This is important for maintaining and ensuring energy efficiency. Make any necessary adjustments to the jamb liners or stops to improve the performance.
If you have had to replace any wooden sections, you can finish the wood with a fine skim coat of solid epoxy filler to create a smooth finish surface. You can also use wood filler to repair small cracks and holes. If the damage is extensive, you may need to replace entire sections of the sash.
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Frequently asked questions
First, you need to remove the sash stops on the sides of your window. Then, pry the old metal glazing points out of the rabbets (the grooves in the sash where the glass sits). Scrape and sand the rabbets down to bare wood. Brush an exterior primer onto the bare wood and, when the paint dries, knead a handful of putty until it’s warm and malleable, then press it into the rabbets. Next, wiggle the pane into the putty while applying even pressure with your fingertips. Continue pushing down until the glass is centred in the opening and about 1/8 inch of putty remains between the face of the glass and the rabbet. Finally, nail all window stops along the top and sides of your window opening back into place.
Window replacement typically costs between $400 and $1,000, depending on the type and material. Leak repairs may cost $50 to $150, while more critical issues like frame damage can cost up to $1,000. Upgrading your home’s windows with double or triple-pane glass may range from $700 to $2,000 or more.
Yes, replacing a broken window pane is a manageable DIY project that can save you money and fix drafty rooms. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can successfully replace a window pane.
You can buy a new window sash replacement kit at nearly any big-box hardware store. If your windows have odd measurements, you may need to purchase a kit online through Amazon or a window provider’s website.
