Crossly balance rods

Question

I am in a 5th floor condominium in Florida. I have trouble opening and closing all my windows which do face the sun every day and are about 30 years of age.

I have two "estimate contracts" for replacement of balance rods in a total 8 windows all in a row. Size approx. 30X30 inches.

Estimate #1 - is for 8 - 2740 balance rods - Crossly plus 1/4" weatherstripping. Plus a very high total cost with labor.

Estimate #2 - is for 16 - 2720 balance rods - Crossly (I have never had any leaks and the stripping all looks very intact. Thus, I did not see the need for weatherstripping) This estimate is a normal total cost with labor. (no weatherstipping in the invoice)

I am a little confused. I am willing to guess that I need 16 rods for 8 windows. Am I right?

So what is the difference between 2740 and 2720 balance rods. Could the wrong size go into my windows and give me more trouble. I do not know which company is the the correct one to use. Please advise.

M. Russell

Casey · Accepted Answer

If you have come this far and have the stamped information from the window balances you may just be able to replace them yourself. You are correct, normally a balance of this type will have two balances per movable sash, if you put a stronger balance on one side of the sash that is stronger and can carry the weight of the window it still will not work as well and as originally intended by the manufacturer to travel smoothly in the track. They are block and tackle channel balances. The differences in the stamped numbers are balance strengths, normally when a stamp begins with 27 it will measure 28" in length. The 2740 stamp option will carry a window sash weight range of 19 through 26 pounds; the 2720 will carry a window sash weight range of 9 through 13 pounds. It is normally best to replace to the original stamp numbers and you should replace with the same balance series.

I know that Crossly used the Series 700 balances at one time but may have used more than one style balance, here is a link to take a look: 28" Series 700

Here is a guide on installing block and tackle channel balances:

Guide: How to replace a channel balance

If your balance does not match up to the Series 700 and you cannot identify the replacement on our site, please feel free to post some images of your balance system for us to identify.