Window channel balance

Home Owner from Florida

Dec 17, 2018 12:20 pm

Hello,

I am trying to obtain replacement window channel balances for my home. I was able to remove one and the only marking I see on it is "28B". It measures about 29 1/4" by 1/2".

I'm not sure if the plastic bit on the end is separate but I will also need all new of those as well.

In total I need 12 balances.

5 user uploaded images

9 Replies

Bob from SWISCO

Dec 17, 2018 1:35 pm

Thanks for contacting SWISCO. I think we can help you replace these balances, but I need a little more information. Do any of the balances have a nylon attachment at the other end of the metal channel? This will help us identify what kind of balance you're looking for.

Home Owner from Florida

Dec 17, 2018 2:01 pm

Hey Bob,

See the attached. When we bought the place, they had the skeleton of this one laying out. It seems to have both plastic ends.

Does this help?

5 user uploaded images

Home Owner from Florida

Dec 17, 2018 2:30 pm

Also, I removed a channel balance from another window and found it stamped "UB 28D".

All windows are identical, why would they be stamped different? Is there a difference between 28B and 28D?

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Paul from SWISCO

Dec 18, 2018 9:18 am

Thanks for sending Bob the pictures. We believe you will need S380-29 channel balances. The two spring stamp markings 28B and 28D tell what stamp option you need to select. This corresponds with the sash weight the spring will hold. The 28B is our 2820 for a sash weighing between 12-16 lbs. The 28D is 2840 for a sash weighing between 23-28 lbs. If you want to be certain you are selecting the right weight range, you can always weigh your window sashes to get a precise measurement.

Home Owner from Florida

Dec 18, 2018 10:56 am

Paul,

Thanks for the great info. Would the S380-29 channel balance be sufficient for replacing both the balances marked 28B and 28D?

Also, a lot of the plastic trim pieces that cover the channel where the balances are installed are either broken or missing. Do you carry this replacement part as well? I attached a picture showing a damaged one.

Thanks again for the great help.

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Paul from SWISCO

Dec 18, 2018 11:51 am

Yes, based on the information provided, the S380-29 should be appropriate for all your windows; just order the amount you need for each stamp option.

The plastic piece you need is a top sash guide. To better identify the replacement you're looking for, could you provide mugshot pictures (front and side) of one of your old top sash guides, preferably an undamaged one? Also, could you note as many dimensions as possible? In the time being, check out or Top Sash guide shop to see all our choices--perhaps you will see the one you're looking for. If you need help removing your top sash guide, see the video below.

Home Owner from Florida

Dec 18, 2018 2:37 pm

I was able to remove a top sash guide, see the attached.

It's about 1.5 inch long and 1 inch wide at its widest. The more interior channel bit measures about half inch wide.

Thanks again for all this guidance, learning a ton.

3 user uploaded images

Bob from SWISCO

Dec 18, 2018 2:50 pm

Glad we can help! Your top sash guide looks like our 18-180. Give it a look and compare the dimensions to see what you think.