How to Change a Sash Window Cord

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STEP 1

Remove the broken cord
Force a paint scraper between the stop bead and jamb. Use another scraper to prise off the bead. Mark the cord position on the stile. Swing the lower sash free, disconnect cords and lower weights. Open the pocket in the pulley stile and remove weights.

STEP 2

Feed in new cord
Use the old cord to mark the new cord length (don’t cut). Tie a bent nail to string and push over the pulley, lowering until the nail is at the open pocket. Remove it and tape other end of the string to the new cord to pull it through. Tie the cord to the weight.

STEP 3

Secure the cord
Pull weight up to the pulley then lower it about 100mm. Sit the sash on the sill and secure new cord into the sash stile using three screws or tacks. Cut off excess cord then attach other weights and cords. Replace the sashes, pocket piece, parting and stop beads.

Other fixes
Twisted or Bowed Sash makes the window stick and there are marks where it rubs the frame. Remove the sash and use a block plane to remove excess from the worn areas. Repaint and refit.
Jammed Pulley happens if the pulley is rusty. Free it with lubricant such as WD-40. If it’s painted over, remove sash and cord and unscrew the pulley. Use paint stripper, wipe clean and coat with penetrating oil.
Sticking happens when windows are being painted. Move them regularly as paint dries. If the original paint is causing sticking, cut around the area between the sash and beads with a utility knife.