Now that the weather is getting warmer wouldn’t it be nice to open that window? But the window is painted shut and the sash cord is broken. You can fix the problem with a few tools and a Saturday afternoon.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Step One

First check to see if the inside/outside of the window is painted shut. Use a window saw to cut through the paint. (figure 1) A pocket knife or a utility knife will work too, but the window saw is the safest and easiest.

Step Two

Draw a line with a pencil along the outside of the trim you are going to remove. This will give you a guide when replacing the trim. Carefully remove the window trim. (figure 2) Use a putty knife to start, then you can use a pry bar. If you are only replacing the cord on one side of the window leave the other trim in place.

Step Three

Free the window from the jam and you’ll see a long slot (figure 3) on the side with a round hole where the knot goes. Remove the unbroken sash cord (most likely the cord has a tack holding the knot in place) hold on and slowly raise the cord until the weight settles or the knot comes in contact with the pulley. Now pull the broken cord out. Set the window aside.

Step Four

To expose the weight you’ll have to remove the finished trim (figure 4) that surrounds the flat side of the window. Take the same care as in Step One not to damage the wood.

Step Five

Feed the cord through the pulley from the inside out. Tie a knot on the end of the cord (figure 5) and tack in place on the window. Cut the cord that you’ll need, a foot longer than the bottom of the window. Replace and tack the good cord on the other side to the window. Replace the window in the jam. Tie a knot in the weight. If it’s a double hung window, and the top window is not fixed tie the same knot that is tied to the working weight. With the window in place check the weight. It should not touch the bottom of the jam.

Step Six

Test slide your window up and down and you’re ready to replace the trim. Sand surfaces smooth, touch up with paint where needed. Be careful not to repaint the window shut again! Clean up all chips and dust.

Some older houses could have lead paint. If you have small children test for lead before starting this project.

Skill Level One hammer: Novice Five hammers: Experienced

Tools & Materials: Window saw, utility knife, finishing nails, hammer, pry bar, sand paper, sash cord. Sash cords come in different thicknesses, measure first.