This is a master bathroom double hung window. there are no markings to identify the glass or mechanism that I can see.
I have no issues opening or closing either sash. The upper sash will stay in place to whatever position I put it at. However, the lower sash will fall down with gravity. I was told the balance track might be missing some parts but wanted to see if you know what I need to replace
also I don't seem to see any tilt latches. how can I find them?
lower sash of double hung won't stay up
Home Owner from California
Jun 8, 2025 7:51 pm
3 user uploaded images
7 Replies
Tom from SWISCO
Jun 12, 2025 2:49 pm
It does appear that your balances are missing. These are spring loaded mechanisms that are precisely calibrated to counterbalance the weight of the sash. Without those, there's nothing to hold the sash up when raised.
We may be able to help you find a match, but we can't do anything without a reference of the original. Do you have an identical window in the house that still has all its parts? Even if the size is different, we may be able to work with it.
In regards to tilt latches, your window doesn't appear to be the type to use them.
Home Owner from California
Jun 12, 2025 9:04 pm
I have a similar window that also doesn't have tilt latches. It opens and stays open properly. Not sure if this helps
2 user uploaded images
Tom from SWISCO
Jun 13, 2025 11:30 am
That does help, yes! We can definitely supply these balances, but I will need more information from you. This project is probably going to get a little complicated so I'll do my best to be clear about each step.
- I need you to remove the balance from this other window (we'll call it Window B) and show me a clear photo of it by itself and without obstruction. I'm specifically interested in the design of the shoe at the end of the cord; these come in many varieties and are unfortunately impossible to ID so long as they're in the track, so removal is a necessary first step.
- I'll then need you to measure the length of the metal channel for this balance, then the height of the visible glass for Window B's sash panel. Not the whole sash, just the visible glass.
- Next, measure the height of the visible sash panel glass on the window that's missing its balance (We'll call that Window A).
- You will also need to weigh Window A's sash panel on a scale to get its exact weight.
My plan is to use the size of the glass and balance on Window B to extrapolate the proper size for the balance on Window A. So for example, if the glass on Window B is 20" high and the balance is 21" long, then we can logically assume that the balance on Window A will be 1" longer than the height of the glass. Make sense?
The video below will also go into more detail as to how this kind of balance is replaced. Hopefully this gives you a head start. Note that the sash is removed by hand, so you'll need to raise it up a few inches and then try to just tilt it in. No tilt latches required.
Home Owner from California
Jun 15, 2025 1:22 pm
It turns out that once I tilted the sash I saw the balances. I was able to slide them up and reattach them to the hook (one side is a bit lower than the other) but even with this the bottom sash doesn't stay up. The only marking I see on the balance is "f 15" on the right and "e 15" on the left. They measure 16 inches. Would I have to take apart the trim to take the balance out and weigh it?
4 user uploaded images
Home Owner from California
Jun 15, 2025 1:43 pm
I was able to reposition the sash correctly on top of the knife lock shoe and now everything works again! Thanks!
Tom from SWISCO
Jun 16, 2025 9:41 am
Oh, fantastic! Sometimes the solution is just that easy.
I'm glad you got your windows operational again. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you had any follow up questions and I'd be happy to assist.
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