Replacement part for window suspension

Question

My windows are at least 14 years old and I do not see any manufacturer brand on them. Some of them became very difficult to lower. When I used more force, a plastic part broke and the spring loaded unit in the frame came loose as shown in Window1.jpg. The part appears to have been held in place by a screw through the plastic and the additional force broke the plastic part from its screw (see Window2-4). I need replacement parts for about six windows and I'd like advice on how to lubricate the others to prevent this from happening to them.

User submitted photos of window hardware.

Tom · Accepted Answer

Thanks for posting. The plastic part that has come off is known as a top sash guide. The spring loaded unit in your first photo is known as a channel balance. Based on what you described, it sounds like the springs are shot in your windows. Lubrication may help, but it won't fix the problem. Channel balances only have a lifespan of around 10-15 years, and it sounds like yours have about hit their limit. If all your windows were installed at the same time, you can expect more balances to fail in the future.

Fortunately, we sell numerous replacements. To start with, see our 18-107 top sash guide pair. These look similar to what you have, but you will need to compare our dimensions to yours to confirm. As for the balance, I can't be sure. Watch the video below to see how to properly identify what you have, then look over our selection of 1/2" non tilt window channel balances here.