Hello,
I have two old double hung windows with no balances on them. They have been milled for spiral balances though. Round channel and a small mortise for the attaching clip. Bot windows are the same size and have 17# upper sash that are 26 3/4" tall and 25.5# lower sash that are 28" tall. Can you please help me select the appropriate spiral tube balances for these windows?
Thank you
Joshua
Hello Joshua. For a wood sash balance system, we typically suggest our Series 500 Non-Tilt window Spiral Balances, along with our 17-012 bottom bracket. This system has been used by the wood window manufacturers since the 1940's. You would need to ensure that the grooves on the side of the sash have been routed to be able to fit a 5/8" diameter balance tube. To determine the balance lengths needed, you would take the glass height and add 1" for the top sash and 3" for the bottom sash. To know what color tip options to select whenever applicable, obtain the exact weight of the sash, then match that exact weight with one of the weight ranges listed alongside each color tip option on a given balance's shop page.
Below are generic instructions for installing the Series 500:
For your wood sashes, you will need our Series 500 balances with 17-012 balance brackets. These brackets hook on the balance spiral. To install these balances, you would drop them in from the top, on the side of the sash. Use a 33-017 screw to attach the balance tubes at the top. Now raise the sash and have someone hold it up, while you attach the 17-012 bottom bracket with a 33-090 screw, while the U-shape opening corrals the spiral. With your finger, lift the spiral up to the bracket, attach the 75-005 tool, and turn the spiral clockwise three turns, hooking it into the fork of the bracket. Repeat on the other side and try the sash. If the sash creeps down, raise and hold up the sash, giving the balances another turn or two.
