How to re-cord a sash window

Sash windows are a beautiful feature in any home but they can get broken just like anything else. Based on a system of pulleys and weights, the cord that runs between the pulleys can get worn and prevent the window from opening easily or create drafts. Here's how you can fix the pulley cord in your sash window which in turn should fix the positioning, weight distribution and functionality of the window.

Level of difficulty

Level 3: Advanced

What you need

• Knife
• Paint scraper
• Pencil
• Pliers
• String
• Small nut/piece of chain
• Nails
• Hammer
• Wax
• String
• Sash cords
• Staffing beads
• Parting beads

The steps to follow

1. Firstly you need to remove the bottom window sash. With a chisel, remove the staff beads located at the front of the window frame. Lift and remove the staff beads from the middle.
2. Lower the bottom window sash and lift it out of the window.
3. Tie a string of about the same length as your sash cord to the upper section of the cord. This string will assist in threading the new sash cord.
4. Use a knife to cut through the cords to release the weights. Make sure you hold onto the cords before dropping the weights.
5. Carefully pry off the side parting beads with a chisel and remove the nails with a pair or pliers.
6. Lower the top window sash and carefully lift it out of the window.
7. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to cut the top sash cord.
8. Remove the weight pocket covers located on the side at the front channel of the window frame. You can pry the pocket covers with a chisel.
9. Lift the weights out through the opening. There are normally two weights on each side.
10. Strip away any paint from the pulleys.
11. Remove the old sash cords from the weights and tie a new sash cord to the end of the weights. Tie the cord in a double knot. Repeat this process for all the weights.
12. When you've re-corded the weights, replace the pocket covers.
13. Secure the cord on each side of the window sashes with three nails to fix the cords in this position. You might want to ask for help to hold the window sash and pull the cord down while you position the cord on the side and fix the nails.
14. Replace the parting beads into the groove of the window frame and put the window sash into the window frame.
15. Refit the staff beads accordingly.
16. Make sure that the window sash can slide up and down easily. If not, rub a thin coat of paraffin or car wax onto the sash rail to smooth its movement.

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• How to remove old paint
• How to fix a jammed window

Don't want to DIY? Get recommended window specialists for your home improvement job.