Learn To Repair A Damaged Sash Cord Yourself

| Monday, March 5, 2012
By Andrew Brentford


Learning how to change a broken cord on a sash window by yourself is not as difficult as it may seem. Before starting the task, there are just a few things that will be needed. Some of the items may be on hand from other projects, but others may need to be purchased. Just be sure to have everything that is required to complete the job before beginning.

Some of the items may already be in the tool box, but if needed, they can be purchased at the local hardware store. Included in the list of supplies are a putty knife, wood putty, finish nails, nylon or cotton rope, a pry bar, hammer, a set of screwdrivers, and a utility knife,

These older style double hung windows use cords and counter weights to hold them open. Weights connect to the framework by a sash cord that wraps around a pulley. After some time, the line becomes damaged from the sun, dirt, and chafing and breaks. If only one rope breaks, it is usually recommended that both be replaced since everything will already be apart.

Starting the repair requires first removing a number of pieces in order to access the weight well. First, remove all the window stops. A putty knife or small pry bar is ideal for this job. If there is any build up of paint holding the wood together, use a utility knife to cut through it.

From each side of the lower part of the frame, take off the metal track. Next take out the sash from the window frame. Now the well cover, or weight pocket cover can be removed. Now the weights are pulled out.

To install the new cords, first measure the old line and cut a new piece to that measurement. Next, pull the new one through the weight pocket and attach the weight to the new cord. Replace the weight pocket covers.

Working in reverse of the disassemble, it is time to put everything back together. The first step is to attach the cords to both sides of the frame. Next position the sash back in the frame and reattach the tracks and then the interior stops. The broken cord on the sash window is now repaired. The window will now be working as if it is new.




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