If you have older sash windows in the home and you find that the sash cord needs to be replaced, don’t fret. Here is an easy guide on how to change a broken cord on a sash window. With some tools from the garage and a quick trip to the local hardware store, those windows will be working like new again in no time. This is a project that should only take a few minutes to accomplish and will have results that last for years to come.
First off, go to the tool box and make sure all the needed tools are there. A hammer to start, and a utility knife, flat bar and a screw driver should do the job. Also needed is some new cord, preferably quarter inch cotton cord, however, nylon will do just fine as well. The cotton shrinks less, but the nylon will work if no cotton cord is available.
Begin by separating the interior stop from the frame using the utility knife. Slicing the paint will allow the stop to come out cleanly without breaking. Taking the flat bar and hammer, tap the flat bar behind the interior stop and slowly remove it, being careful not to damage the frame or the interior stop. We will be reusing the stop, so we want to preserve it as best as possible.
Next we need to remove the tracks that the sash glides in. These are often metal tracks, and are easily removed with a screw driver. Once the metal tracks have come out, the sash should be free to come out as well. Attach a string to the old sash cord that is still attached to the weight. This will be used later to draw the new sash cord over the pulley.
Remove the pocket cover which cover the and hide the sash weights. Now pull the weights and the remaining sash cord out of the weight well. While one has access to the weight wells and the window sash removed, replace both sash cords. Attach the new cords to the weights and string them up through the top of the window.
Reattach the new sash cords to the sash. Replace the sash in its place. Put back the metal track in place. Put back the interior stops using the hammer and some small nails or brads.
Now that the new sash cords are in place the window should move up and down again as if they were new. Now it is easy to understand how to change a broken cord on a sash window.
In order to keep your historic windows opening and closing correctly, you may need to schedule sash window repairs London. The technicians who do sash cord repairs have both knowledge and experience to get the job done right.
