A wooden sash window is subject to harsh conditions and requires a high level of skill to make and to fit to the frame. There are a number of diagrams and a description of window sash and how to fit them in the Audels Builders and Carpenters guide.
The bottom wooden part of the window. In this case, the 'sash' is any kind of covering for windows. It could be shutters, a shade, blinds, whatever. Or it could be that the narrator "opened the window".
There are many stores which sell wooden sash windows. The two most popular ones are The Home Depot and Lowes. If you do not want to purchase from one of those you should check your local window shop or call a professional window company like Wallside.
The upright of a sash window is called a stile. There is a diagram showing this and the other names of parts of a sash window at `Windows - Window Sash' http://www.inquirewithin.biz/windows/window_sash.htm.
See the related link below which covers the construction of window frames including some interesting cross sections of wooden window frames including provision for pulleys and sash weights and views showing frames for brick, stone and wooden or frame walls.
In a sash window, the window panels open by sliding up and down in vertical grooves, possibly aided by a system of cords and balanced weights. The sash is made of window panes and their border.
From the French word châssis "frame"
pocket windowI belive what you describe is also called a barn sash. That being where they are most often used. One window sash, a sash being one window, most house windows have 2 sash, upper and lower, one sash that either raises, or slides in the wall of a building.
A window sash on hinges
Window putty (the kind that is used in wooden sash windows anyway) doesn't necessarily get hard. It's formulated with linseed oil and remains flexible to keep a good seal between the glass and the sash. After installing it, let it 'cure' for a few days before painting over it. When it gets old and starts cracking, look at it to make sure that the seal between the glass and the sash is still intact and doesn' leak water or air.
A sash window regularly has 2 sashes in which can be slid open. Depending on the retailer and window size, prices for sash windows can differ. One would need to have detailed measurements in order to properly quote prices.
Located on the upright side of a window frame, the term casement refers to a window sash opening on hinges. This can also be called a casement window. Before the sash window was introduced, the casement window was the most common house window in the UK.
If it is a sash-window, the ropes which have a weight on one end, and the other end is attached to the window frame (on both sides) has snapped. Once the ropes have snapped, the weight of the window will cause it to fall down. If it is a sash-window, search the internet for repairing a 'sash-window' or contact a local builder/handyman.