Is there a problem using too-strong a balance?

Question

I have 3 windows with non-tilt spiral balances.  The little crossbars pull out of their mounts and the balances pull out their holes at the top; there are no brackets at the bottom - it attaches directly to the sash.  The frame is aluminum.  Can I add a bracket?  I switched to thicker screws to mount at the top, then I moved a bit lower to a new hole.  Is there a better tactic?  I'd like to use the strongest balance and apply less tension - is that a problem?

Tom · Accepted Answer

Thanks for reaching out to us. I'll do my best to address your questions in order.

To start with, your window definitely uses a bottom bracket. There's no other way for the spiral balance to attach. The question is whether its a side mount or bottom mount. Usually if your window uses one, you don't have the room to use the other.

Assuming you have a side mount bracket (which would be obscured from view while the sash is in place), then you might be able to install a bottom bracket instead but only if you have the space to drill new holes. That means the bottom of the sash has to be flat and level; no dips, holes, or gaps. If you have any of those, then it's not worth considering. You should stick with what you have.

As for the damaged hole at the top, you're probably better of drilling a new hole either above or below the hole, then changing the length of the balance accordingly to make up the difference. I guess you could use a larger screw, but if it doesn't fit in the balance to begin with then you're not making it any easier.

Lastly, there is a problem in using a balance that's too strong, yes. If the spring has too much tension, then the upward force provided by the spring will be higher than the downward force provided by gravity. What that means is your window will be much harder to close, and could even open up on its own. Stronger is NOT better when it comes to balances. That's why they're called "balances," after all. You only want the weight calibration that holds your sash weight; no more, no less.