Old Sunroom Windows

Question

In a newly acquired home I have a sunroom with 6 "double hung" windows that do not appear to have ever properly operated. There are no sash lifts installed on any sash, upper or lower. The mechanism used to keep the sashes in place is some sort of friction-fit steel spring that is just wedged in between the sash and the channel. It looks like a ridiculous way to operate a window.

I have removed the upper and lower sashes from one of the 6 windows, which all appear identical and are in good condition. Sashes weigh 7-8 pounds each. Each sash has a channel routed in each side, with a partial closure of the channel by close-fitting pieces of wood which appear would be easy to remove. I assume the windows were made to allow for sash cords with weights and also the channel insert sort of channel balance.

I would be very pleased if you would advise me on which item to purchase to get these windows functional. Sashes about 26" tall X 28" wide . I will call but thought it might be helpful to describe the problem in writing first. Thank you.

Tom · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to say that I don't believe we sell a particular product that would get this window operational again. They appear to be very, very old and odds are the hardware in use here hasn't been made in decades.

As for modern products that may work, the only thing that comes to mind is our Series 500 spiral balance, along with the 17-012 bracket (sold separately). I use these pretty often on older wood windows and they generally have a pretty high success rate, though it's far from a guarantee.

The way they work is the balance installs in the side jambs of the window, screwing in at the top. Then you screw the 17-012 bracket to the bottom corners of the sash, which gives the bottom tip of the spiral something to hook onto. When operational, the balance plus the bracket "cradle" the sash, applying the upward force required to regulate its operation.

There's one big caveat to this, however: you need to have the room on the sides of the window for this balance to install. If there is no room, you have to find a way to make room. If making room is impossible, then this won't work. In a best case scenario these balances will simply just fit without any additional retrofitting required and you'll be good to go. It's been known to happen. More than likely, however, it'll require a bit of handiwork and creativity on your end to get these functional.

The other caveat is figuring out what length balance you need, but that's usually easy enough. The rule of thumb is to measure the height of the visible glass and then add 3" for the bottom sash, or 1" if it's for the top sash (assuming the top sash even uses balances). You'll also need to weigh the sash to get the proper weight option.

If you've never done this kind of project before you may want to consult the help of a local professional to do it for you. It can be involved.