How to replace a broken sash cord

One of the most frequently asked questions we get asked is how to replace broken window sash cords. This operation is not difficult, and if approached methodically is well within the scope of the average diy`er. Yesterday we were called into a house in where a sash cord had snapped and the lady of the house wanted it replaced. Replacing broken window sash cords is a much requested job for the average London Builder . When one sash cord breaks it is always advisable to replace the other one, as it will probably be very near the end of its life as well. Firstly we carefully took off the outer staff beads or trims to gain access to the sash. We took out the sash after taking off the other cord and by doing this we could easily access the side wells where the weights are housed. We then took out the weights,cleaned out the housing and took off the old worn cords from the weights. We now cut two new lengths of cord and threaded them through at the top so that they dropped down the well ready to be attached to the weights. This can be tricky because of the thickness of the cord so I usually thread a very thin piece of line through first with a piece of lead at the end of it so that it easily drops down into the weight housing area I then attach the other end of it to the newly cut cord which I can then easily pull through and attach it to the top of the weight. With both cords now attached to the weights we then tacked the other ends to either side of the sash and placed it back into position. We then tested it to ensure that it slid up and down freely and when we were happy we then tacked back the outer beading with some oval nails,filled the nail holes with putty and painted any damaged areas.You now know how to replace broken window sash cords and if you don`t want the hassle of doing it yourself the London Builder will be only to glad to do it for you.