springs wearing out, tougher to function?

Question

We have single hung non-tilt aluminum windows. Most of them are very hard to open. There is a lot of tension perhaps. I pulled out the channel balance (part number S351, 24")and everything seems in order. My question would be why is to hard to open? does the spring get harder/more tension over time? I hate to replace all of them when its really not necessary to do so. Some are bent so those have to go but others are just fine. Again, can anyone tell me why these got harder to open? is it the weatherstripping that is cause the friction? If I replace all of the balances am I going to have the same problem- very hard to opening and close these windows. Thanks in advance.

Paul · Accepted Answer

There are a few things you can try before you start buying new window balances. I would first remove sash and balances, then spray the window jamb channel with silicone spray, and on the the exposed springs on the open back of the balances. Reinstall everything and see if that helps. Sometimes a little use or being in a moist area causes the sashes and balances start corroding and this method seems to loosen the sash movements.