Sash Cord Replacement in Melbourne — The Complete 2025 Guide

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If your timber sashes slam shut, won’t stay open or feel heavy, the cords are likely worn or broken. This practical guide explains the signs, the replacement process, and heritage-friendly options for Melbourne’s period homes — from Carlton and Fitzroy to Hawthorn, Kew and St Kilda.

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Quick signs your sash cords need replacing

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• The sash won’t stay open (drops unexpectedly).

• You hear thuds in the box: a counterweight has fallen.

• Travel is jerky or the sash feels unbalanced/hard to lift.

• Frayed or snapped cords visible at the pulley.

 

If you’re dealing with any of these, book an assessment: Sash Window Repairs Melbourne.

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What actually happens during a cord replacement

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• Access & protect: Staff remove parting/staff beads carefully, protect floors and surrounds.

• Balance check: Weights are identified, recovered (if dropped), and matched to the sash.

• New cords: Heritage-appropriate cord/chain is threaded over pulleys and tied to weights.

• Reassembly: Beads refitted, reveals checked, and clearances adjusted.

• Testing: Each sash is tested for smooth, fingertip travel and hold.

 

Tip: This is the perfect time to add draught proofing and service pulleys for quieter operation.

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Melbourne-specific considerations

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• Coastal exposure (sea air) can accelerate cord wear and corrosion on pulleys.

• Seasonal movement in period timber frames may need slight adjustments to beads.

• Heritage overlays: Cord-only work is typically like-for-like maintenance; always confirm with your local council if unsure.

 

DIY vs professional

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Replacing cords looks simple, but you’re working with heavy hidden weights and fragile glazing. Incorrect rebalancing leads to hard-to-use windows or damaged sashes. For period homes, we recommend a professional for safe, accurate results.

 

Our Melbourne cord-replacement service

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• Heritage-sensitive, like-for-like approach

• Balancing and pulley servicing included

• Optional draught proofing and discreet upgrades

• Local partners for fast on-site attendance

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→ Request a Melbourne quote

 

FAQs

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How long does cord replacement take?
Most windows take 1–2 hours each depending on access and condition.

 

Will the window look different afterwards?
No — we match cord/chain and keep profiles and sight-lines original.

 

Can you replace cords in tenanted properties?
Yes, we coordinate access and minimise disruption.

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Next steps

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1. Take a few photos (inside & outside).

2. Tell us the suburb and the number of sashes.

3. Get a same-business-day response: Sash Window Repairs Melbourne.