Balances springing out in Atrium window sashes

Home Owner from The Dalles, OR

May 2, 2016 11:22 pm

I have two styles of window, each with a different balance length but same shoes and tops on each.

Both balance bodies are 9/16 inches wide and 5/8 inches deep. The first style of balances is 20 5/8 inches long; the second is 26 5/8 inches long.

The springs keep binding or popping out of the sashes. Will replacing the balances with the same work or do I need a different size?

Thanks.

User submitted photos of a window balance.

4 Replies

Paul from SWISCO

May 3, 2016 3:05 pm

We can replace this balance, though it will need to be custom made. However, it sounds like the balance isn't the issue. I think it may be a broken top sash guide. Watch the video below and tell me if this matches your issue.

Home Owner

May 3, 2016 3:34 pm

Wow! You guys have so much great information on your website. Sorry I missed this.

This is what is happening. I removed two top guides (in the pictures) and they appear worn, but not obviously broken. Perhaps I should start by replacing these on all the windows? Do you have these in stock?

User submitted a photo of a top sash guide.

Tom from SWISCO

May 4, 2016 11:49 am

Thank you! I'm glad that video helped. As for this part, it looks a lot like our 18-171. Check it out and see what you think. I see what you mean about the wear. That "lip" on the underside of the top section is looking a little shallow, which may very well be the culprit.