How To Repair Sash Window Cords

By Author: Samantha Dale
Total Articles: 610
Comment this article

While a charming feature of many older homes, sash windows require periodic maintenance to keep them beautiful and functional. Over time, it becomes necessary to repair sash window cords to address problems. Cords can become worn and broken after years of use.

However, that does not mean that you have to replace the entire window. You can repair a sash cord with a few tools and a little bit of knowledge. This article will show you what to do in two simple steps.

Step 1: Remove the sashes

Begin by removing the inner sash. Locate and remove the stop beads, which are usually secured in place by pins. You can use a small chisel and hammer to gently tap the pins out. Using a pencil, take a moment to mark the location of the ends of the existing cords. This will provide you will a guide when you install the new cord. Take care not to drop the weights when you lift the sash out.

The outer sash is then removed by chiseling out the parting bead. Again, make a pencil mark to indicate the spot where the cords end. Once you have lifted the sash out, you can unscrew the cover from the weight box. This creates ...
... openings that make it easier to remove the weights. Pay attention to how the cords are tied so that you are able to replicate the process when you install your new cord.

Step 2: Replace sash cord

It is more difficult to install a new sash cord than it is to remove it. You will want to begin assembly by threading the new cord over the pulley. Do this by inserting it into the boxing on the window side. Noting the location of your pencil marks, go ahead and tie the cord.

Replace the upper sash first, by placing the cord side back into the frame. Position it approximately four inches from the windowsill. Since you want the weight to fall when the sash is pushed up, pull on the new cord until the weights are at the top of the box. Nail it in place, and then tie it. Re-attach the parting bead.

The lower sash is installed in the same manner, so that the weight is at the top of the box whenever you lower the window. You are then ready to finish your project by re-securing the stop beads.

Conclusion

It normally takes a couple of hours to repair sash window cords. If you find that you are not quite as handy as you thought that you were, it can be worthwhile to consider hiring a handyman service. An affordable option, it may save you hours of frustration. Regardless, once your new sash cord is replaced, invest in annual inspections. By detecting problems early, you will be in a better position to avoid costly repairs.

Do your windows have a broken sash cord? Silver Saints is London's Premier Handyman Service. At SilverSaints, we employ the most experienced handymen in London. We can repair sash cord, replace sash cord, and repair sash window cords to make your windows operate properly again.http://www.silversaints.com/WhatJobsWeDo/ReplaceSashCords.aspx