
Install one side of the sash into the top of the window frame. Push the sash against the frame until you can insert the opposite side of the sash in the frame. Lower the sash until it engages with the bottom of the replacement spring balances.
Full Answer
How do you replace a channel balance in an aluminum window?
Replacing a Channel Balance in an Aluminum or Vinyl Window. To install the new balances, insert balance clip into hole, and gently pull balance down until it can be hooked into take-out clip. Once both balances are secure in place, carefully reinstall sash. Lift sash so the top of it is higher than ...
How do I remove the balance from the side of window?
Please watch the video to see how balance should be handled and removed while under tension. Locate and pull out take-out clips in side of window using a flat-tipped screwdriver. These do not detach from the window frame, but just pop out. There's one on either side on the top half of the window frame.
When should I replace the balances in my Window?
The lifespan of a balance can vary depending on how often the window is used, as well as the condition of other parts in the window. If the balances fail quickly, it may be indicative of other problems such as the wrong hardware being used. Should I replace both balances in my window at the same time? Yes.
How do I replace the balance on my sash window?
The balance clip on the bottom of the balance is hooked into a hole in the window jamb. Carefully unhook clip from window jamb and set balance aside. We suggest replacing both balances at once to ensure that weight of sash is carried between two equal strength balances. Find and purchase the correct replacement balance.

How do you replace aluminum window balance?
0:001:18How to Replace the Channel Balance in a Window - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo replace the balance take the bottom clip of the new ballon and hook it into the hole on the gym.MoreTo replace the balance take the bottom clip of the new ballon and hook it into the hole on the gym. Again. Remember that it should be under a lot of tension carefully pull the balance downward.
How do I fix windows channel balance?
0:512:00How to replace a non-tilt window channel balance - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake your window. And install one side at a time over top of the bottom attachment. Put the rightMoreTake your window. And install one side at a time over top of the bottom attachment. Put the right side in and let's press it down. And I have to do now is push your takeout Clips back in.
How do you fix a window balance spring?
1:433:24Side-Load Single Hung Balance Spring Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe balance spring tightly. Put downward pressure on the bound spring. Until you can slide the topMoreThe balance spring tightly. Put downward pressure on the bound spring. Until you can slide the top of the balance ring under the takeout clip to reinstall the sash into the frame of the window raise.
How much does it cost to fix window balance?
A window balance repair costs approximately $50 for the parts and equipment if you do it yourself. If you hire a pro, the price may jump to $100.
How do you replace a window balance rod?
0:322:19How To: Replace or Reset a Window Balancer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a flathead screwdriver to pop the clips out at a 45 degree angle perform this action on bothMoreUse a flathead screwdriver to pop the clips out at a 45 degree angle perform this action on both take out Clips remove the sash stops which are located in the top corners of the window.
How do you string a window balance?
4:557:19How to fix the (sash) Channel Balance for Single Fix Window - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst thing to orientate the unit. So you see the claw over. Here. If I get a better view andMoreFirst thing to orientate the unit. So you see the claw over. Here. If I get a better view and install it. So then slide it to the top. So the first part first.
How do you fix a aluminum window that won't stay open?
1:483:04How To Fix Windows that Won't Stay Up/Open. Window ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPut it up at the top slide it in to one side. And then slide it in to the other side. And then dropMorePut it up at the top slide it in to one side. And then slide it in to the other side. And then drop it down slowly push.How To Fix Windows that Won't Stay Up/Open. Window ... - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › watchhttps://www.youtube.com › watchSearch for: How do you fix a aluminum window that won't stay open?
How do you replace a window balance block and tackle?
0:411:33Window Repair: Replacing Block and Tackle window balances - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst place the hook into the frame. Then push down on the balance to engage the takeout clip repeatMoreFirst place the hook into the frame. Then push down on the balance to engage the takeout clip repeat on the other side of the window. Retrieve the sash and first push into one side of the frame.Window Repair: Replacing Block and Tackle window balances - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › watchhttps://www.youtube.com › watchSearch for: How do you replace a window balance block and tackle?
How do you install a tension spring on a window sash?
0:303:01Ultra Hardware 68500 Window Sash Tension Spring - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can install it between the jamb. And the window the sash is here the window is here. The jamb isMoreYou can install it between the jamb. And the window the sash is here the window is here. The jamb is here. You can insert that into the gap between the two and nail it to the top of the window. Nails.Ultra Hardware 68500 Window Sash Tension Spring - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › watchhttps://www.youtube.com › watchSearch for: How do you install a tension spring on a window sash?
How do you fix window guides?
Window balances usually last ten to twenty years depending on frequency of use and environment. How to replace a tilt window spiral balance.Sep 4, 2017Broken Window balances - SWISCO.comhttps://www.swisco.com › discussions › Broken-Window-...https://www.swisco.com › discussions › Broken-Window-...Search for: How long do window balances last?
How does a window balance work?
Jambs are the main vertical parts forming the sides of a window frame. A sill is the main horizontal part forming the bottom of the frame of a window. A jambliner is a strip which goes on the sides of a window frame that provides a snug fit for the window sash.Jan 30, 2020The Parts of a Window | Pellahttps://www.pella.com › ideas › window-anatomy-glossaryhttps://www.pella.com › ideas › window-anatomy-glossarySearch for: What are the things on the side of windows called?
How do you replace a block and tackle window balance?
0:191:34How to Determine the Length of a Window Balance without ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOne. It would be about nine. Or ten inches and for doing spiral spiral beyond this we typically sayMoreOne. It would be about nine. Or ten inches and for doing spiral spiral beyond this we typically say measure the whole sash the lower sash.How to Determine the Length of a Window Balance without ... - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › watchhttps://www.youtube.com › watchSearch for: How do I check my window channel balance?
What is a sash window channel balance?
1:152:24How to Repair Up/Down Sliding Windows : Window CleaningYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce we have the rod hooked in place we're going to put this windowpane. Back back in and so inMoreOnce we have the rod hooked in place we're going to put this windowpane. Back back in and so in order to do this we're going to hook it the right side first. And they're going to hook on the left.
How to remove aluminum window from a window?
With a stationary window, first remove the slider then unscrew the center bar holding the aluminum window in place, using the mallet to tap it to the side. Now, use the mallet the gently tap the window out of its channel then lift it out.
How thick is double strength glass?
Single strength glass will be 3/32 inch thick and double strength will be 1/8 inch thick. The difference might seem minor, but it’s very important when it comes to fitting. If you’re not sure, take a piece of the old glass to your glass shop and let them advise you.
How to put a glass on a table?
Put the glass on a table with one long side and one short side overhanging. Fit the rubber gasket tightly on those sides. With the gasket in place, take one half of the frame and place it over the glass, tapping the corner into place with the mallet. When that’s secure, tap the long side and the short side into place.
Do you need a new piece of glass?
You’ll need a new piece of glass the same size as the old one but an important factor to the job is determining whether you need single or double strength glass since one is thicker than the other and the wrong size won’t fit easily into your frame.
Can you replace aluminum windows yourself?
Aluminum windows do a great job, but, like all windows, accidents can occur that cause the glass to crack or break. This ultimately leads to replacing the glass. Although you can pay a glazier to come in and do the job, it's surprisingly easy to do it yourself.
Why do windows have spring balances?
Your windows use spring balances to help you raise and lower the window sash and keep the sash in a raised position. When you have difficulty raising the sash, or it no longer remains open without the help of a prop, one or both of your spring balances could have a broken spring or cord and replacement is in order to repair the window.
How to keep a window from rising too far?
Look along the top inside of the window frame for stops. The plastic stops snap into the frame to keep the window sash from rising too far inside the frame. When your window has stops, grab them with your fingers and pull them from the frame. Pull out on the bottom of the take out clips inside the frame.
How to lift a window sash?
As you lift the sash, the spring balances will appear beneath the sides of the window, and you will begin to feel the weight of the sash in your hands. Raise the sash until you can pull one side of the sash from the frame to release the sash from frame. Carefully set the window sash aside.
How to take out a window clip?
Pull out on the bottom of the take out clips inside the frame. These clips install about 6 to 8 inches above the sash. Slide a flat-head screwdriver under the bottom of the clip when you cannot pull the bottom of the clip out of the frame with your fingers. Some older windows may have screws instead of clips. When your window has screws, rotate the screws counterclockwise once or twice to back them out of the frame slightly. Do not remove the screws completely.
How to adjust tension on a replacement spring balance?
Insert the hook attached at the bottom of the replacement spring balance into the slot cut in the window frame. Swing the top of the spring toward the window frame as you push down on the spring to increase the tension .
How to unhook a window spring?
Lower the top of the spring toward the opposite side of the frame as you slowly raise the bottom of the spring balance. Continue to raise the bottom of the spring until you release all the tension and can unhook the spring from the slot holding it in the window frame. Place your balance on a table with the spring opening facing down.
How to release a window sash from the frame?
Raise the sash until you can pull one side of the sash from the frame to release the sash from frame. Carefully set the window sash aside. Push down on the top of the spring balance to release it from the clip. The springs are under tension; the larger the window, the more tension the spring holds, so keep a firm grip on the spring.
What is the purpose of a window balance?
Their job is to regulate the opening and closing of the window sash.
Why is my window not staying open?
If your window fails to stay open, is noisy when it moves or is stuck , then it is very likely the window balances are broken and need to be replaced. SWISCO is the leading balance authority and this page will help you find the exact part you need for your project.
Can you replace a window balance?
In most cases, replacing your window's balances is not a particularly difficult project, and we find that it is something a homeowner with relatively little hardware experience can accomplish. We offer detailed tutorial videos to help. If you would prefer assistance, we recommend that you contact a local professional.
Do top sashes have balances?
Top sashes sometimes have balances, though not always. If the top sash does have balances, there is a chance that they will be different from the bottom sash. We recommend checking to be certain.
Do all windows have the same balance?
We strongly recommend checking each window just in case. If your windows are all the same brand then they may use the same kind of balance, but the length and weight rating of each balance may differ due to the size and weight of the windows in question.
Do you have to remove the window sash?
Yes. It is necessary to remove the window sash and then the balance itself in order to properly identify the correct replacement.
Can you mix and match a balance?
Yes. We highly advise against mixing and matching old and new balances. If you do this, the new mechanism will have to carry a greater load to compensate for its older, weaker counterpart, causing it to wear out faster.
What was the most common finish for aluminum windows?
The most common finish used between 1920 and 1950 was a "nonfinish," also called a "mill finish.".
How many aluminum windows does Alcoa have?
magazine ran an ad vertisement for ALCOA Aluminumfeaturing the 2,652fixed, double hung and casement aluminum windows in
What are the problems with factory windows?
Factory windows and residential win dows of very lightweight construction were most prone to such problems. On many buildings, however, such condi tions are uncommon or are limited to only some windows. More common are instances where sash have been damaged as a result of previous retrofits of either mechani- cal vents or window air conditioning units. Such installations may also have resulted in the removal of one or more muntins to accommodate these units. While interlocking seams were found on some early aluminum windows, units were normally assembled us- ing mechanical fasteners and welded joints. Operable units that were primarily welded together tend to have been higher quality windows and are generally fo und in better condition than windows that were mostly fastened together with screws, bolts, or rivets. Machine screws may have a tendency to loosen over time, which can con tribute to various problems that require remedial work. In assessing the condition of the sash and frame, any flanges and receptors for weatherstripping that were extruded as part of the sash or frame should be examined, as some sections may have been damaged over time. Alumi num glides or stops for operable sash also need to be checked to detemline whether they are bent, gouged, cor roded, or painted. These conditions could impede the ease of operation of the sash. Other problems that can affect the operability of the window include broken balances, corroded and broken hardware, misaligned or loose hard ware, and windows that have been later sealed or painted shut. While aluminum is resistant to most types of corrosion, it is affected by certain agents such as alkalis, hydro ch loric acid, and lead-based paints. While considered a durable buil ding material, aluminum does deteriorate.
What was the renovation plan for the historic windows?
6 The renovation plan called for cleaning the aluminum window parts, replacing the existing glass and any miss ing or damaged parts, and making the historic windows fully operable again. Mock-ups of all phases ofthe work were required early on to establish the work standard to which the finished job would be held. It was anticipated that most ofthe work could be done in place, with work on the interior and exterior portions of each window done simultaneously.
What are the problems with deferred maintenance?
Figure 6. Deferred maintenance can result in a se ries of problems, such as broken hardware, cracked or missing glazing putty, and missing perimeter caulk (all shown above). All of these problems can be corrected. Note the uneven nature of the surface deposits of pollutants and grime on the mullion and sill of this window due to weathering and lack of cyclical cleaning.
What causes air leakage in windows?
Leak age is commonly caused by cracked perimeter caulking, missing or cracked glazing putty, cracked or broken glass, and worn, ill-fitting, or missing hardware. Such conditions are typical of long-term use and deferred main tenance. If the windows originally incorporated weatherstripping, most of this material would have exceeded its life expectancy and would now be worn, cracked, deformed, or even miss ing altogether. Misaligned or deformed window sections can also cause air and water leakage. In investigating water infiltration around window open ings, it is important to ascertain the actual source. Problems with the exterior wall rather than the window may manifest itself as moisture on the interior walls around window openings. Where windows have become misaligned over the years, it is common to find stopgap mea- sures being used to reduce air
What were the early aluminum windows?
Early aluminum windows were well constructed and, if properly main tained, were designed to last the life of the building. Some did incorporate features that proved deficient. As with the window industry as a whole, there were companies that provided low cost products with shorter service life or units not properly engineered for the size of the window opening. In assessing the condition of early aluminum windows, it is easiest to identify those problems that also are common with older steel and wood windows. At the same time, it is im portant to recognize areas of deterio ration that are more specific to older aluminum windows.
What is a window balance?
A window balance (sometimes called a sash balance, window spring, or window "balancer") is a somewhat hidden window component sitting inside the window frame. Window balances are only found in double-hung or single windows and counterbalance the weight of the sash assisting you with opening and closing your windows.
Where are window balances found?
Window balances are found in both residential and commercial windows . Browse window balances, parts, and accessories. There are many different styles, types, and sizes of window balances, so finding the correct replacement can be tricky and at times frustrating.

Step 1 - Removing The Old Window
- If you need to replace the glass in the slider part of your aluminum window, the task is remarkably easy. In most cases, all you’ll need to do is lift up the bottom of the window, swing it out toward you and remove the window. In other instances, there might be a roller at the top and you’ll need to remove the screw holding it in place first. With ...
Step 2 - Removing The Glass
- Put on protective gloves before you begin to remove the glass. Locate a screw in the bottom left hand corner of the frame. Unscrew it until it falls away and keep to one side. Next, do the same in the opposite (top right) corner. The frame will now be in two halves. Using the mallet, tap the frame gently away from the glass on one half. Put the frame aside and repeat on the other half u…
Step 3 - Selecting New Glass
- You’ll need a new piece of glass the same size as the old one but an important factor to the job is determining whether you need single or double strength glass since one is thicker than the other and the wrong size won’t fit easily into your frame. Single strength glass will be 3/32 inch thick and double strength will be 1/8 inch thick. The difference might seem minor, but it’s very importa…
Step 4 - Fitting New Glass
- Put the glass on a table with one long side and one short side overhanging. Fit the rubber gasket tightly on those sides. With the gasket in place, take one half of the frame and place it over the glass, tapping the corner into place with the mallet. When that’s secure, tap the long side and the short side into place. Now, move the glass so the other two sides overhang the table and repeat …