In order to know how to replace a sash cord you need to understand the basics of a double hung window. A double hung window has two sashes one on top and one on bottom. A sash is the framework that holds the glass. The sashes slide up and down within a window frame. The side frames are the jambs. Heavy metal sash weights connect to sashes with a rope-and-pulley system hidden behind the jambs. The weights provide a counterbalance that makes the sash easy to open.
A series of stops are attached to the jambs to provide grooves in which the sashes can slide. The stops that keep the frames separated and the inside stops can be pried off to remove a sash.
Before you start this project, make sure you have the correct tools and material readily available. You will need new sash cord, a putty knife, a hammer, a utility knife, putty, finishing nails, paintbrushes and in case you chip away the paint, enough paint to touch it up.
Remove the molding on both sides of the bottom sash. Place your putty knife near each nail that is holding the wood in place and gently pry them loose. Practice patience as the wood can split easily if you try to rush.
Once the inside stop is removed the window can be easily pulled out. With the framework out, remove the broken cord from its fastened slot. Remove the access panel if there is one. Removing the access panel allows accessibility to the weight. If there is no access panel, removing the window casing on the sides will be the only way to get to the weight.
There are usually many coats of paint on these windows after years of use. Remove the paint to find any screws that are securing the access panel in place. Remove the panel and cut off any cord that is connected to the pulley. Feed the new sash cord on top off the pulley and into the crevice that holds the weight. Tie the new cord to the weight. Replace the weight and tie a knot on the end of the cord. Allow the weight to dangle three inches from the windowsill when the sash is open all the way.
Reinstall the frame, with the finishing nails secure the stops. You may need to fill in any gaps with putty and touch up any paint that chipped in the removal process. The project is now complete and you should have a window that once again opens easily. How to replace a sash cord is not as difficult as it may sound.
A series of stops are attached to the jambs to provide grooves in which the sashes can slide. The stops that keep the frames separated and the inside stops can be pried off to remove a sash.
Before you start this project, make sure you have the correct tools and material readily available. You will need new sash cord, a putty knife, a hammer, a utility knife, putty, finishing nails, paintbrushes and in case you chip away the paint, enough paint to touch it up.
Remove the molding on both sides of the bottom sash. Place your putty knife near each nail that is holding the wood in place and gently pry them loose. Practice patience as the wood can split easily if you try to rush.
Once the inside stop is removed the window can be easily pulled out. With the framework out, remove the broken cord from its fastened slot. Remove the access panel if there is one. Removing the access panel allows accessibility to the weight. If there is no access panel, removing the window casing on the sides will be the only way to get to the weight.
There are usually many coats of paint on these windows after years of use. Remove the paint to find any screws that are securing the access panel in place. Remove the panel and cut off any cord that is connected to the pulley. Feed the new sash cord on top off the pulley and into the crevice that holds the weight. Tie the new cord to the weight. Replace the weight and tie a knot on the end of the cord. Allow the weight to dangle three inches from the windowsill when the sash is open all the way.
Reinstall the frame, with the finishing nails secure the stops. You may need to fill in any gaps with putty and touch up any paint that chipped in the removal process. The project is now complete and you should have a window that once again opens easily. How to replace a sash cord is not as difficult as it may sound.
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Those who renovate or restore historic buildings have always acknowledged the convenience of s sash window restoration company close by. Where sash window repairs London are a part of your home repair needs, visit our location.
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