For many old houses, sash cord replacement is something that will be required at some point or another. Sash windows have a classic style that adds plenty of charm and impact to your home, and were very popular during the Victorian design era. Today, these windows continue to be popular, despite being a bit trickier than other types of windows.
What makes these windows unique is that they work on a pulley system, with sash cord that is used to mechanise the top and bottom window panes. When these sash cords get worn, the window may become hard to open, or other issues may arise.
How to tell if Sash Cord Replacement is Required
You can tell if sash cord replacement is needed for your windows by seeing if one of the following has occurred:
- Windows are hard to open or close. Worn cords can cause the windows to jam, becoming hard to open or close. Ideally, the window should work smoothly with no interference. If the window is sticking, take a look to see if you can notice any fraying on the exposed cords.
- Windows do not stay open. Likewise, windows that do not stay open, and shut on their own may also have an issue with the cord. A worn or broken cord can cause the window to stop opening entirely, and if this happens, a replacement is essential.
- Sash cord is frayed or worn. If you can visibly see any damage to the cord, this is the easiest way to see if it needs to be replaced. Look for any fraying, loose threads, worn sections or other faults.
The actual task of replacing sash window cords is not totally impossible, but if you are busy with work and other responsibilities, this is never a task that is looked forward to with much relish. The process involves removal of the lower pane to access the control panel, and then adding new cord that pulls through the system. Once the cord is replaced, the lower panel then needs to be fitted back again.
Luckily, there are many good contractors out there who have experience with sash windows. Hiring an expert to do the job will ensure that your beautiful windows are sorted quickly and simply, without any elbow grease on your part.