Spiral tube balance length

Home Owner from Bridgeport, CT
Aug 28, 2009 8:51 am
How do I choose the correct length (spiral tube balance) for my window? Does it correspond to the height of the sash? I think I need the S500-24
6 Replies

Paul from SWISCO
Aug 31, 2009 8:58 am


You choose the correct spiral balance length by measuring your existing spiral balance lengths. Measure just the metal tube (seen in the product picture).

Paul from SWISCO
Aug 31, 2009 9:46 am


Check if there is another window of the same dimensions that does have the spiral balances still. It is not easy to determine the spiral balance length without the original spiral balance. What type of window is it? What are the window dimensions? What led you to the series 500 replacement spiral balance?

Home Owner from Bridgeport, CT
Aug 31, 2009 12:17 pm
The existing spiral balances on my windows are missing - again, how can I determine the correct length? Thank you.

Home Owner from bridgeport, CT
Aug 31, 2009 1:07 pm
Thank you! The windows are old wooden double-hung, single glazed, non-tilt, they were originally operated with ropes and pulleys - somewhere along the line someone changed half of them to spiral tube balances (changing the jambs too). Out of the half that were changed, half of those tubes either are broken or missing. I am wondering if the sizes on those that remain are correct in the first place - may-be it is the reason so many failed? (I am an Architect btw). I am not even sure I need 9/16" although this the current size (for a bottom sash that is 27"w by 25" h, I found a 9/16"x 25" long spiral balance). No tip, so no color. The shoe is a metal bracket (hence the 500 series)

Casey from SWISCO
Sep 1, 2009 7:59 am


We specialize in replacement hardware. You are going to need to try to find a local contractor that is familiar with wood windows; you may be able to get a referral from a local mill that makes wood windows for a new balance system.
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