Sash Cords, Pulleys and Weights

Why Do Sash Window Cords Break?

Do you have a sash window that’s difficult to open, or doesn’t open at all? The cause may be snapped or worn sash cords. At Sash Window Experts, our experienced team will remove the sashes from the box frame and replace any sash cords that are no longer fit for purpose to get your window working smoothly again.

Sash window cords can break for a variety of reasons, the most common being:

• Wear and tear – Over time, sash window cords can weaken and deteriorate due to regular use and exposure to the elements. The repeated opening and closing of the windows, as well as the weight of the sashes, can put strain on the cords, causing them to fray or snap.
• Incorrect installation – If the cords weren’t installed properly in the first place, they’re more likely to break sooner. Improper alignment or incorrect tension can lead to increased stress on the cords, leading to premature failure.
• Age and degradation – Sash window cords can become brittle and prone to breakages as they age. Exposure to sunlight, temperature changes and moisture can all degrade the cords over time, making them more susceptible to snapping.
• Excessive weight or force – If too much force is applied to the window sashes, such as slamming them shut or forcefully tugging them open, it can put excessive stress on the cords and cause them to break. Similarly, if the sashes are too heavy for the cords to support them, it can lead to cord failure.
• Lack of maintenance – Neglecting regular maintenance and care, such as lubricating the pulleys and checking the condition of the cords, can contribute to cord breakage. If the cords become frayed or damaged and aren’t promptly replaced, they’re more likely to break.

It’s important to look after your sash cords, and indeed the entire sash window, to ensure the longest lifespan. Contact Mark at Sash Window Experts for trusted, professional advice and attention for all your sash window needs.

How Do You Replace a Sash Cord on a Sash Window?

Replacing the sash cords on a sash window can be complicated so it’s best left to the professionals. Here at Sash Window Experts, our tried and tested process for re-cording sash windows broadly follows these steps:

1. Removing the window sash from the frame, which also involves removing any stops, parting beads and trim.
2. Accessing the pulley and old cord on either side of the frame, by removing covers or access panels as needed.
3. Cutting and removing the old cord and removing it from the pulley, detaching weights or other attachments as necessary.
4. Measuring the length of the old cord and cutting a new one of the same length, ensuring it is sturdy enough for the weight of the window sash.
5. Attaching the new cord by threading one end through the pulley and tying securely, then repeating for the other side.
6. Reinstalling the sash into the frame, ensuring the new cords are properly aligned with the sash and pulleys.
7. Testing the operation by opening and closing the window, making final adjustments as needed.
8. Once the sash is operating smoothly, replacing stops, parting beads or trim that were removed earlier.

Before re-hanging the sash, we will clean and reattach the sash furniture and lubricate the pulley axles to ensure the window operates smoothly. The traditional pulley and weight system is a finely calibrated balance, so we always check the right weight required and correct the counterbalance weights and pulleys as necessary. Underweight sashes are a common occurrence since, interestingly, sashes lose weight gradually over the decades. Overweight sashes, on the other hand, tend to be the result of prior installation errors.