Doors and Windows - Double Hung Window-Rope Replacement

I am currently restoring an older home built in the 1930's. Many of the windows are not working because of broken rope/and or Pulley's. I want to replace this cord, but, am rather at a loss as to how to go about it. I realize that the frame around the window will have to be removed in order to do this. The windows are all in good condition other than the broken cords. Any suggestions in what I will need to get this working correctly? Als

Here is some info:

http://www.homestore.com/HomeGarden/HomeImprovement/HowTos/HowTos/CRHO_ReplacingSashCords.asp?poe=homestore

http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/replacing_a_sash_cord.htm

http://www.myhousepro.com/worklike/articles/sash.htm

http://www.easy2diy.com/cm/easy/diy_ht_index.asp?page_id=35694621

It may be that your windows are built the same as mine, and the casing on the front needs to be removed to reach the sash cord. The access in these articles is through the sides of the window, but not all are built that way.

Hope this helps.

You're going to have to take the sashes out first. To do this, you take the inside "stop" moulding off first. It is a pc of 1/2" thick by 1 1/4" wide "stepped" moulding perpendicular to the sashes held on by small nails. If yours are painted up, cut the point it joins face trim with a utility knife. Best way to get the moulding off is use a small pry bar, like a Stanley Wonder Bar ( the smallest one), and slip it in behind the stop moulding from the sash side.

Taking that inside stop off will let you remove the inside sash ( the lower one ). Then you have to remove the parting stop to get the upper sash out. It is a 1/2 x 3/4 square edged strip set in a groove in the center of the jamb.....you need that Stanley bar to pop it out and remove. This will let you take the outer sash out.

You have to take the sashes out because the sash cord knots in a slot on the side of the sashes.

Now to the weights... "some" of these windows have a little removeable "door" in the side jamb....you'll have to look close for it.....look for a single large flat head screw that holds it in place IF yours has one. You take that door/panel off and you can access the window weight.

If your's do not have this, you have to remove the face casing inside or outside.....usually it's done inside. That will be the wide, flat trim board sitting on the wall surface. This will expose both weights for the upper and lower sash.

If your pulleys are bad, you're gonna just have to find a place that sells restoration stuff for that era window, or find a house getting vinyl replacements and ask the installer to pop you out a few, or find a house be demolished.

Sash cord used to be a common item at hardware store....don't know WHAT you'll find now....

:) My Thanks to both Chris and Andy for all the information. I'm gonna start on this asap. Thanks again Guys!

Glenn

Glenn: Chris and Andy covered all the bases. You can't go wrong with their solid advice. I just want to add that the best sash cord to use has a small braided steel reinforcement cable inside. I've seen it in the Ace Store near me. Good luck!