Here is how to change a broken cord on a sash window. It is not a tough as it might sound. With some household tools and an excursion to the store, the broken window can be back in business in no time at all. This project should take about as much time as a television program, and the outcome will last a lot longer.
To begin the project, first evaluate that the proper tools and materials are in hand. Start with a utility knife, a hammer, flat bar and a screwdriver. If anything is missing, make sure to pick the tools up at the hardware store when picking up the new sash cord. The new cord should be quarter inch cotton or nylon. Cotton works better due to it stretching less, however, nylon will work in a crunch.
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.
There is a cover over the pocket in which the weight is housed. Remove this cover. Now the weight should be removable, as well as the old sash cord. Attach the new cord to the weight and guide it over the pulley using the attached string. Attach the other end of the cord to the sash. While the metal tracks are out, go ahead and replace both sash cords.
Attache the new cord to the top of the sash. Place the metal tracks back into place secure with the removed screws. Check that the it moves freely up and down and that the weights inside the well are working properly.Once it is in the tracks and working properly, take the hammer and some nails or small brads and reinstall the removed interior stops. This will hold the sash in place.
It’s easy! Tell everybody who needs to know how to change a broken cord on a sash window these step by step instructions. Not only can it be done in a matter of minutes, the window will work properly for many years!
In order to keep your historic windows opening and closing efficiently, you might need to accomplish sash window repairs London. The technicians who do sash cord repairs have both experience and knowledge to get the job done right.