Sash windows are a common feature in many older homes, but with so many hardware options, choosing what you need can be difficult.

This guide explains the main types of sash window hardware, including sash lifts, sash fasteners, sash stops, sash drops, pulleys, cords, weights and spiral balances, and what to check before ordering.

Quick answer: What hardware does a sash window need?

For most sash windows you need sashlifts, a fastener, sash stops or drops.

The window will also use either sash cords, pulleys and weights or spiral balances, depending on how it has been made. These are part of the window’s operating system rather than the visible decorative hardware.

1. First things first: what is a sash window?

A sash window is a window with one or more framed glass panels, called sashes, that move vertically within the window frame.

They are also commonly called double hung windows, and they consist of an upper sash and a lower sash. The lower sash usually slides upward to open the window. Some sash windows also allow the upper sash to move down.

Sash windows are most commonly found in traditional and heritage style homes, including Victorian, Edwardian, Federation, Californian Bungalow and Art Deco homes. They are also used in new builds where the homeowner wants a traditional or period style finish.

Key sash window terms

• Upper sash: the top sash of the window

• Lower sash: the bottom sash, usually the section that is lifted to open the window

• Meeting rail: the horizontal rail where the upper and lower sashes meet when the window is closed

• Sash fastener: the fitting that secures the upper and lower sashes together

• Sash lift: the small handle or pull used to lift and lower the bottom sash

These are the main terms to understand before choosing sash window hardware.

2. What hardware does each sash window usually need?

Most sash windows have two types of hardware: visible hardware and operating hardware.

Visible hardware

This is the hardware you can usually see on the window.

A typical sash window may need:

• 1 x sash fastener to secure the window closed

• 1 or 2 x sash lifts to help lift and lower the bottom sash

• Sash stops or a sash drop, depending on how you want the window to open or be held in position

Operating hardware

This is the hardware that helps the window move up and down.

Depending on how the window has been made, it may use:

• Sash cords, sash pulleys and weights

• Spiral balances

If your window already opens and closes properly, you may only need the visible fittings. If the window is dropping, difficult to lift, or not staying open, it is worth checking the internal mechanism before ordering visible hardware only.

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3. What is a sash lift?

A sash lift is the small handle or pull installed on the lower sash of a sash window. It gives you something to grip when lifting the window open or pulling it closed.

Sash lifts are usually installed near the bottom of the lower sash. Many windows use two sash lifts, one on each side, so the window can be lifted evenly.

Are sash lifts sold as a pair?

No. Sash lifts are usually sold individually.

How many sash lifts do I need?

Generally, you use double the number of sash lifts compared with the number of sash fasteners.

However, this depends on the width of the window and what was originally installed. If the window is narrow, or if you are replacing existing hardware, it may make sense to match the original number and position.

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4. What is a sash window fastener?

A sash window fastener is the fitting that secures the upper and lower sashes together when the window is closed. It is usually installed on the meeting rail.

Customers may also call this a sash lock or fitch fastener.

Standard vs narrow sash fasteners

The correct fastener depends on the width of the meeting rail.

In most cases a standard sash fastener will suit, however a narrow sash fastener may be needed if the meeting rail is slimmer.

Before ordering, check that the lock and keeper will both fit on the available timber and that the rails meet closely enough for the two parts to engage.

5. Locking vs non-locking sash fasteners

Sash fasteners are available in both locking and non-locking styles.

Non-locking sash fasteners

A non-locking sash fastener secures the window closed, but it does not require a key or locking mechanism. This is the most commonly ordered sash fastener.

Key-locking sash fasteners

A key-locking sash fastener uses a modern style key and is often chosen when customers would like added security.

Grub screw locking sash fasteners

Some sash fasteners lock with a grub screw rather than a standard key. The grub screw is tightened or loosened with an Allen key to lock or unlock the fastener.

This is still a locking style, but it does not operate with a typical key.

When choosing between key-locking, grub screw locking and non-locking fasteners, consider how the window will be used and the level of security needed.

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6. Common styles of sash fasteners

There are several different styles of sash fastener. The best choice depends on the look you prefer, the width of your meeting rail, and whether you need a locking or non-locking option.

Traditional sash or fitch fastener

This is the most common style of sash fastener. It usually has a rotating arm that turns into a keeper to secure the upper and lower sashes together.

These are available in standard, narrow, locking and non-locking options.

Brighton sash fastener

A Brighton sash fastener is a traditional style of sash window fastener. It usually has a sprung arm and a screw-style knob that tightens into the keeper.

When fastened, it helps pull the meeting rails together and secures the window closed. When opened, the arm lifts away to allow the sash to move.

Quadrant sash fastener

A quadrant sash fastener is another traditional style of sash fastener. Some quadrant fasteners have a slimmer keeper, which can make them useful where there is limited room on the top rail or meeting rail.

Some quadrant styles are also lockable with a grub screw, depending on the product.

Hook sash fastener

A hook sash fastener is a traditional sash fastener style where the fastening section hooks into the keeper to secure the window closed.

7. What are sash stops and sash drops?

Sash stops and sash drops are used to control how the sash window opens or is held in position.

What does a sash stop do?

A sash stop is used to restrict how far a sash window can move. Depending on the style and where it is installed, it can help limit the opening of the window or allow it to be held in a partly open position.

Sash stops are commonly used when the customer wants:

• Ventilation without fully opening the window

• Extra control over how far the window opens; particularly on a second story

Sash stops are not the same as sash fasteners. A sash fastener secures the window closed at the meeting rail. A sash stop restricts or holds sash movement.

Standard sash stop vs flush sash stop

A standard sash window stop is generally more visible and sits proud of the surface. It is a traditional style of stop used to restrict the sash movement.

A flush sash window stop is designed so the barrel can be fully retracted. This allows the window to open completely when desired, without having to remove the stop.

Always check the product dimensions and installation requirements before ordering.

What does a sash drop do?

A sash drop is a traditional sash window fitting used to help hold the window open.

It is usually installed so it can swing out of the way when not in use, then swing into position when needed to support or hold the sash.

Sash drops are commonly used on older-style sash windows and are often chosen for restoration projects where the windows may not stay open on their own.

8. Sash cords, pulleys and weights vs spiral balances

Sash windows can use different operating systems. If you are only replacing visible hardware, you may not need to know every internal detail. However, if the window is not staying open or is difficult to move, it is important to know which system you have.

Traditional sash cord, pulley and weight system

Traditional sash windows often use a cord and weight system.

In this setup:

• A sash cord attaches to the sash

• The cord runs over a sash pulley in the frame

• The other end of the cord connects to a hidden sash weight

• The weight helps counterbalance the window so it can move up and down more easily

If a sash window will not stay open, slides down, or is very difficult to lift, the issue may be with the sash cord, pulley or weight system.

Spiral Balance System

A spiral balance is a spring-tension system used in some sash windows instead of traditional sash cords, pulleys and weights.

Instead, the spiral balance uses spring tension to help support the sash as it moves up and down.

These systems are not the same, so it is important to identify what is currently installed or how the window has been made before ordering replacement operating hardware.

9. What to check before ordering sash window hardware

Check the window type

First, confirm that the window is a sash or double hung window.

A sash window moves vertically. If the window opens out on hinges, it is more likely to need casement, awning or fanlight window hardware instead.

Check the meeting rail

For a sash fastener to work, the upper and lower rails need to meet closely enough for the lock and keeper to engage.

If the rails are too far apart, uneven, damaged or out of alignment, the fastener may not close properly.

Check whether you need a standard or narrow fastener

Measure the width of the meeting rail. If there is limited timber, a narrow sash fastener may be required.

Check existing screw holes

If you are replacing old hardware, measure:

• Overall size of the existing fitting

• Screw hole centres

• Available timber width

• Whether the new fitting needs to cover old marks or holes

Check how many lifts are needed

Most sash windows use two sash lifts per window, but narrow windows may only need one. If replacing existing hardware, it is usually best to match what was originally installed unless there is a practical reason to change it.

Check the internal mechanism

If the customer is replacing pulleys, cords, weights or balances, confirm whether the window uses a traditional cord and weight system or a spiral balance system.

10. Common sash window misunderstandings

We see these come up regularly:

• Ordering a standard fastener when a narrow fastener is needed

• Not checking whether the lock and keeper can engage

• Not realising sash lifts are usually sold individually

• Not measuring existing screw hole centres

• Expecting the finish of new items to match older aged hardware

Taking a few minutes to check the window type, rail width, measurements and existing hardware can help avoid ordering the wrong fittings.

11. Sash window FAQs

What is a sash window?

A sash window is a window with one or more framed glass panels, called sashes, that move vertically within the frame. These are also commonly called double hung windows.

What hardware do I need for a sash window?

Most sash windows use sash lifts, a sash fastener, and sometimes sash stops or a sash drop. The window will also use either sash cords, pulleys and weights, or spiral balances, depending on how it has been made.

Are sash lifts sold as a pair?

No. Sash lifts are sold individually. Most standard sash windows use two sash lifts, but narrow windows may only need one.

What is the difference between a sash lift and a sash fastener?

A sash lift helps you lift and lower the window. A sash fastener secures the upper and lower sashes together when the window is closed.

Do I need a standard or narrow sash fastener?

This depends on the width of the meeting rail. If the meeting rail is narrow, a narrow sash fastener may be required.

What does a sash stop do?

A sash stop restricts how far the sash window can open. It can be useful for ventilation, second-storey windows, or where you want extra control over the opening.

What does a sash drop do?

A sash drop is a traditional fitting that can swing into position to help hold a sash window open.

Why won’t my sash window stay open?

If the window slides down or will not stay open, the issue may be with the sash cord, sash pulley, sash weight or spiral balance, rather than the visible sash lifts or fastener.

What is the difference between sash cords and spiral balances?

Sash cords work with pulleys and hidden weights inside the window frame. Spiral balances use spring tension instead.

Still unsure? We’re happy to help

Sash window hardware does not need to be complicated, but every window setup can be slightly different.

If you are unsure what to order, send us:

• A clear photo of the full window

• A close-up photo of the existing hardware

• Measurements of the existing fitting

• The width of the meeting rail

• Whether the window uses cords and weights or spiral balances, if known

Contact us here, as our team can help point you in the right direction before you place your order.