How to Replace Window Balance Cover
If your single or double-hung windows are becoming more difficult to open and close, make noise as you open and close them, or are drafty, this can indicate worn-out or faulty window balances. Window balances are mechanisms that counter the forces of gravity and hold the sash, the part of the window that holds the glass within the window’s frame, in place. When signs appear that your window balances are not operating as they should, you should replace them.
Blaine Window Hardware Inc. has been helping customers select the correct hardware for their doors and windows since 1954. If you need help determining which replacement window balances are appropriate for your windows, count on Blaine’s Window Hardware, Inc.’s research department to help you select the right one.
Types of Windows Balances
Single-hung windows allow you to slide only the bottom window up or down, while double-hung windows will enable you to move both the bottom and top windows up and down. The window balances are usually located inside both sides of the frame that surrounds both windows. These balancers prevent the windows from sliding downward on their own.
Not every window is created equally, so the type of window balance you may have can vary depending on the age of your windows and manufacturer. Here are common balances that are used in most windows.
Spiral Balances
These types of balances can also be called tube balances. A spiral rod, attached to the bottom corner of the window sash, rotates within a tube as you move the window up or down, increasing or releasing tension as needed to keep the window in place and allowing for a smooth transition to the up or down position.
Block and Tackle Balances
This type of balance is more sophisticated as it uses a series of pulleys and coil springs to help with window movement and placement stability. Inside the mechanism, one side of the coil spring is attached to the pulley system that consists of two or more pulleys with a nylon or synthetic cord threaded through.
One end of the cord is connected to the pulley block, while the other runs through a locking terminal. The other side of the coil spring is attached to a mechanism that attaches to the window sash. As the window moves up or down, the pulley system will tighten and loosen the coil spring as needed.
Constant Force Window Balances
These balances, otherwise known as coil balances, are the most reliable and long-lasting of all the balances mentioned. These balances contain stainless steel rolled coil springs extending and coiling in on itself, much like a tape measure. Manufacturers must consider the dimensions of a window when creating an effective coil balance for that window.
An Easier Way to Find a Window Balance Replacement
Blaine Window Hardware can point you in the right direction when you’re looking for a window balancer replacement. If you don’t know what window balancers to purchase, learn on our website part identification page how we can help you identify the balancer you need and supply you with the part number. Once we pinpoint the exact balancers, we can help you order them so you know you’re getting the correct window balancer for your particular windows.
Blaine Window Hardware Inc. Minimizes the Challenge of Finding Replacement Window Balancers For Your Unique Windows
Blaine Window Hardware Inc. knows that smoothly operating window balances are important for your windows’ overall functionality and longevity. That’s why we make finding the correct replacement window balances for your type of window as easy as possible. Contact us at Blaine Window Hardware Inc. for expert tips and insights about window balances. Enhance your windows today!