How Balances WorkWindows with counterweights or balances have a simple, functional design. Unlike spring mechanisms in more modern windows, many older double-hung windows have iron weights hidden inside the hollow window casing. Cords are tied to the weights, fed up and over pulleys at the top left and right of the window casing then are tied or tacked to the window sash. The weights balance the weight of the sash, which holds the window in place when raised. It takes years for the original sash cords to break and the weights to fall inside the casing.
It’s not unusual to find at least some original cords in working order 100 years later. Supplies and ToolsIf your window is missing one or more weights, they are still available from certain window suppliers. For balance, the weights on each side of the window should match. Sash cord, which is a type of rope, is available at most hardware stores. A decorative alternative is brass or copper sash chain instead of cord. Part of the cord is always exposed, so replacing it with sash chain can dress up the window. Repairing window balances requires a few tools.
You’ll need a nail puller, scissors or a sharp knife and a marker. You may need a screwdriver, and a can of three-in-one oil is helpful if the pulleys don’t move freely.
For chain, you’ll also need wire cutters. Accessing the WeightsTrim molding called the window stop runs top to bottom on the left and right sides of the window casing, butted against the front side of the lower window sash. The stop forms a lip that holds the sash in the window casing. Between the bottom and top sash there is another piece of trim called the parting bead that also runs top to bottom.
The parting bead performs the same function as the stop, but for the upper sash. Stops are often tacked in place, though some are fastened with screws. Once removed, you can pull the lower sash out of the window to reach the parting beads. Parting beads simply pry out. At the bottom of the left and right sides of the window casing are panels that pry out as well. The counterweights are inside the panel openings. Installing the BalancesIntact old sash cord serves as a pattern to measure and cut the new cord.
Otherwise, cut a piece twice as long as the height of the window. Tying a heavy nail temporarily to one end of the cord and feeding it over the pulley helps the cord drop to the bottom. The cord is tied to the weight and put back inside. Finding the right cord length involves pulling the loose end of the cord down to raise the weight near, but not touching the top inside the window casing. With the lower sash set back in the window and the weight raised, measure the loose end of the cord against the cord opening on the side of the sash.
Cut it a few inches longer to allow for feeding the end through the cord opening and tying a knot. The process for the upper sash is essentially the same, except the weight should be near, but not touching the bottom when the upper sash is closed.
In this video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva repairs a window that won't stay open.Steps:1. Lower both window sash and remove the screws holding the jamb liner to the side jamb.2. Next, raise both sash and remove the remaining jamb-liner screws.3.
Pull the lower half of the jamb liner off the side jamb, and set it aside.4. Remove both sash from the window frame, using pliers to disconnect the spring-loaded strings from each side of the sash.5. Unscrew and remove the vinyl cover from the header over the window.6.
Window Coil Spring Balance Replacement
Yank out the staple holding each spring balancer in place. Remove the old balancers from the window header.7. Screw a new spring-balancing mechanism to the left and right side of the header.8. Replace the vinyl cover to the header, concealing the new mechanisms.9. Set the top sash on the window stool. Use pliers to grasp the plastic plug attached to the end of the spring-loaded string.10.
Pull the plug down and insert it into the hole bored in the upper edge of the sash.11. Slide the sash into the window frame, and pull down and connect the opposite string. Once both strings are attached, raise the top sash up to the header.12. Next, connect the bottom sash to the two spring-loaded strings.13. Insert the small vinyl guide into the slot in the lower, left corner of the bottom sash.14.
Set the bottom sash into the window frame and slide it all the way up to the header.15. Reinstall the lower half of the jamb liner, slipping it between the sash and jamb.16. Screw the jamb liner to the jamb.17. Test the operation of the sash.
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How To Install Single Hung Window Balance System
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