Window parting bead for double-hung sash, in Pine or Accoya
Parting bead is the thin wood strip set into the window jamb that holds the upper and lower sash apart so each one slides in its own channel. When it wears down or rots, the sash starts to rattle and bind. Replacing it is a standard part of restoring a double-hung window.
Pick the wood to match the job. Standard Pine is the traditional choice. Accoya is treated to resist rot, worth it on a window that takes weather. Either way, getting the right thickness matters, because the bead has to fill the groove snugly to guide the sash without pinching it.
Sizes
- B: 3/4″ x 7/16″
- C: 3/4″ x 15/32″
- D: 3/4″ x 1/2″
Sold in 7-foot lengths, with 10-pack and 50-pack options for whole-house jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a window parting bead?
Parting bead is the thin wood strip set into the window jamb that holds the upper and lower sash apart so each one slides in its own channel. When it wears down or rots, the sash starts to rattle and bind, and replacing it is a standard part of restoring a double-hung window.
What sizes does the parting bead come in?
It comes in three thicknesses, all 7 feet long: B is 3/4 inch by 7/16 inch, C is 3/4 inch by 15/32 inch, and D is 3/4 inch by 1/2 inch. Getting the right thickness matters so the bead fills the groove snugly and guides the sash without pinching it.
How do I know what size parting bead to get?
Pick the thickness that matches the gap in your jamb. The bead has to fill the groove snugly to guide the sash without pinching it, and the three sizes (B, C, and D) let you match your double-hung window.
What wood is the parting bead available in?
You can choose standard Pine, the traditional option, or rot-resistant Accoya, which is worth it on a window that takes weather. It is sold in 7-foot lengths, with 10-pack and 50-pack options for whole-house jobs.
Want to get it right? These hands-on guides from The Craftsman Blog show you how.
Watch the tutorial
Double Hung Window Anatomy
Parting bead, blind stop, sash, sill — old windows have a vocabulary of their own, and this guide demystifies it. Knowing the parts makes a repair go smoother. Especially handy when you're replacing the parting bead itself.
Related tutorials
From The Craftsman Blog
How To: Remove Window Sash
Step one of any window restoration is getting the sash out of the jamb, and that starts with the stop and parting bead. Scott walks through removing them without damage. Essential before you replace worn parting bead.