I put the cover back on and used the two countersunk holes on the bottom (on this one I had to drill out the top using the two existing holes as a guide) I reattached the unit to the window frame with two countersunk head screws.

Not sure we can be of any assistance without more info. I also put paste wax on everything that slides. [url]https://imgur.com/a/22YV5C9[/url] You can see yours, we cant. I'm just saying this because if you drop and break one of your sashes trying to figure this out, you'll be out another couple hundred bucks. I need to replace some broken cords (the ones that keep the window open)All the information online is for windows that have a wooden parts that one would pry off and then take out the sash. I have a an 18 year old aluminum frame double pane bathroom window.

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Most new double-hung sash windows use spring balances to support the sashes, although older styles used counterweights attached to pulleys. Large double hung windows that are easy to operate?

Then I replaced the cover so that the ground away posts were in the opening where they belonged and taped the cover on with USPS packaging tape. Its very much about ascetics for me but seems practical as well. An Andersen dealer. If its Andersen, there is usually a serial number etched in the glass or call them with the glass size like MWM said above. Once that is removed, you'll see the metal boxes that the cords go in to.

I don't know how to identify the proper balance box by model and I haven't found a cross-ref for that. Can the cords just be replaced without replacing the entire mechanism? The cords can then be removed from the sash.

The left side (from the inside) vinyl jamb liner is actually 2 pieces.

I use it for repairing wind chimes and all sorts of other projects. All said- under $2 invested and about20 minutes of work for both sides. I also did not want these expensive beautiful windows covered entirely with a screen hiding the beauty of the windows from the outside. We have Anderson double hungs which are fine. What glue should I use to attach it back in place? glad that this worked for you as I have never heard of anyone doing this before. I use to have a procedure from andersen to get the vinyl loose.

suggestions. Andersen has a glass size to window call out chart on there site under service/parts.

Nice follow up and write up. It never really threatened to though.).

Whether you need to replace the upper or lower sash, we have Andersen Tilt Wash Replacement Sashes and Tilt Wash Screens in a wide variety of sizes and colors.

It's thin, extremely strong, and virtually indestructible. Raise the lower sash, remove the screws in the liner and the liner will pop out. It slid right into place easily after I resorted to that method.



It has taken me nearly as long to post this than to replace the broken sash cord line.

I know the model depends on window size. YMMV. Made up of two sections of glass (sashes) in a single frame, the sashes slide up and down to allow air to flow in and out of a room.

A Nearby family (widow and three kids) has four windows each with one or two broken springs. Also since I'm a pro, it's not worth my time to take them out, and take them apart since even if it was possible it would cost the customer 2 or 3x as much as just swapping the parts out. If I do want to open just the top window only for some reason the screen will slide up or can be placed on the top of the windows. Operator seems fine since it closes tight on its side. So far, I have the box open. Post up some pictures of the before, during and after process.

Can't hurt.

I suspect this will help plenty of folks in the future. Any thoughts on how to treat this window? My son and I managed to accomplish this repair without too much difficulty.

It seems that finding the parts and ordering them is more trouble than it's worth. I did crack one of the jamb liners a little but it still functions.

All rights reserved. Andersen Window - Perma-Shield Narroline Counter Balancer, #331, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 431, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 531, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 637, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 737, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 939, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Sash/Counter Balancer - 1133, Door Glass Lites, Inserts, Entry & Sidelite frames, Sliding Door Hardware & Parts for Glass Patio Doors, Andersen Double Hung Window Parts & Hardware, Andersen 200 Series Narroline Window Balancers, Andersen Windows - Perma-Shield Narroline Counter Balancer, # 1031, 110 E 16th Ave, North Kansas City, MO 64116. What if you just leave it? When re-installing them, use a hammer and a small block of soft wood to tap them tight into the window casing.

You still may not be understanding that there are probably 20 different kinds of Andersen balances that they have made over the years. The balance boxes are probably less than $15.00 each. When they were about $15 a piece replacing them was one thing, but now they want $45 each and want you to replace two. How did you judge the right spring tension for the 'empty' wheel? I get that you are volunteering your time though. I was then able to replace the broken cord with some nylon masons line. I like fixing things rather than tossing them, especially when it only needs a piece of string replaced. It's just loose and not impending anything.

I then used a small c-clamp to keep it wound and proceeded to place the correct number of wraps of lines on the drum to duplicate the unbroken one (total of 3 turns).



They make a very tight fit into the window casing. I opened up the sash balance mechanism by grinding the staked keepers that hold the cover in place. Suggestion when I need a really strong, small cord, I use kevlar spear fishing line.



My windows have a jamb that is all one piece vinyl with nothing that could be removed to take out the sash (I hope I an explaining this correctly) Can anyone give me quick instructions on how to do this or know of where online there might be instrustions for this? When the tension on both cords felt about the same, I let it be. They're efficient. Then inserting a putty knife into the housing (had to bend the end cover up for access) and over the spools (to protect them), then a flat screwdriver on top of that knife and turning it to pry the cover free.



Once you have determined the callout size a dealer should be able to provide you with the correct balance box. You may freely link I did replace the cords without buying the whole unit successfully. If you do have to replace the unit, save the old one somewhere you will remember, you never know when you might need that spring or maybe the cord. I was hoping to use stranded wire instead of string but that may not work any better. Double-hung windows are the most popular window style in production today. If the liner cracked to the outside, you'll want to replace it before water finds it's way into the crack. We have central air so we would only be opening our windows on a beautiful spring or fall day and would not need to open the windows from the top for air flow circulation(letting warm air out the top and outside air in through the bottom). Dan, I'm going to at least try the rebuild approach! I have pella and I have one that is 4' wide and 5' tall = get a sash handle and you will have no issue raising and lowering - I didn't get them but mine works like a dream.

How did you control for Slow release with all that tension in the wound up wheel?

Mine work fine without it.

From past experience replacing tape measure tapes, I was careful to watch for and avoid the spring going ballistic on me. Must have tension cord and work carefully. It is pretty straightforward, and the people at Anderson are pretty helpful. I have an awning window that only closes properly on the operator side. Thanks again. One note, is that the jamb liners have splines on the back.

So we have no idea what kind / style of balance you are talking about, nor to we know the era (age and model) the window is from, so how could we possibly answer whether or not yours are repairable. 1995-2022 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Stained Quartzite after drilling/installing windows. If you want prefinished white interior, please contact us here at Andersen Window Parts. Im requesting help with repairing, (not replacing) Andersen window balances. Double-hung windows are not a good choice where you need to reach across something, such as a sink or bath, in order to open the window. Many of todays double-hung windows feature the ability to tilt either one or both sashes in for easy cleaning.

Check the link below for a contact # and they can email you instructions, Here is a link that might be useful: Link to andersen windows.

I then wound as much of the string as I could, pulled the cord out some more and holding the carrier wound more cord onto it. A tip getting that left side track back into place without breaking it or hurting yourself is to slather some liquid dish soap onto the window stud. Among the colors we stock are white, terratone, sandtone, and forest green. Lower the sash, then swing it in to remove it from the liner. Full or half screens on new double hung windows? The cords are under tension and if you happen to let one go and it goes back into the mechanisim, your going to buy a new one because it's gone for good. Learn the types, materials and relative costs here, 5 factors to consider when picking and placing windows throughout your home, If heaving open your windows leaves you winded, let the cranks or cam handles of casement windows bring in an easier breeze, Doing dishes is anything but a chore when a window lets you drift off into the view beyond the kitchen sink, When standard windows just won't cut it, these innovative options are a breath of fresh design air, Classic window design brings in big views, fresh air and versatile style, Although they open from the bottom, awning windows are tops at boosting air circulation even when the rain comes knocking, North Yorkshire and Leeds Leading Design Team, Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obmqxeMfQmU, Double-Hung Windows Offer Singular Traditional Style, Replace vs. Some claim you cannot do this, or they wouldn't want to waste their time, Yes if the spring would have been broke maybe 10 inches in, this may not have been a practical fix, so before going ahead like I did, first order one you can return, and when splitting the unit take a photo of it to remember what it is supposed to look like when you put it back together. It took me a little while to figure out the spring has first to be locked on the outer catch and then be wound down into the hub, but with a little time, patience, and some choice words of encouragement, it got done I then hand wound the spring carrier by hand as much as I could and using a flat screwdriver, I made room by the carrier string slot to attach the string while holding the carrier from spinning under the springs tension. Deciding what to do with windows in disrepair isn't easy.

(Do this before taking stuff apart, in case they have to order them from the factory.)

Use the charts below to figure out the product you need by measurement. Thanks for the info I was able to find the proper replacement devices online. Follow up: The mechanism is still working well (gets used almost daily) so it seems the standard nylon mason's line is good enough. It's rated at 155-pound test. It also helps to file the sharp end of the spline on the back of the track so it doesn't gouge into the stud. home improvement and repair website.

Another benefit is taking half screens in and out for winter is far easier than the full screens, not so awkward to work with.

Anderson Glass Company stocks Andersen Double-Hung Window replacement parts. I replaced two complete balances but saved the old ones in hopes of repairing them. Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros, This depends on your budget. It remains cracked open on the opposite side. Restore: The Great Window Debate, Replace Your Windows and Save Money a How-to Guide, Update Your Windows for Good Looks, Efficiency and a Better View, Contractor Tips: How to Choose and Install Windows, Renovation Detail: The Kitchen Sink Window, 9 Creative Window Designs for All Kinds of Spaces.

Here is a link that might be useful: Andersen Windows, Thanks for the good advise on how to do this. Then threaded the line out through the hole in the housing and through the plastic pellet and tied a big knot in it.

Unscrew them to remove them. Andersen has quite a few different models of double hungs since they have been making windows for almost 120 years, so your question is a little vague.

(I wore work gloves during the rewinding operation so I could safely hold the spool with my thumb when needing to do subsequent rewinding on it. After taking it apart by grinding even the two crimped tabs on the housing top I saw the wound spring had snapped about 5 inches from the carrier retainer end, not the hub end. Pulled out the spring and the string to get it out of the way, and using the 5 inch broken spring I held it over the gas stove using a pair of pliers to heat the snapped end and I used another pair of needle nose pliers to re-bend the snapped end to look like the good end just to see if that would work, and yes it did.

Houzz uses cookies and similar technologies to personalise my experience, serve me relevant content, and improve Houzz products and services. I assume you have wood windows, right? Amazon has them.

Can anyone help? submitted to our "DoItYourself.com Community Forums". I can reject non-essential cookies by clicking Manage Preferences. That can lead to rot, and major repairs.Good to hear the project went well!! After that I did install 1 small rivet to secure the cover to the case because you have to pry the unit apart for this procedure. But since we have moved I don't have a clue where it is.You pop one side of the vinyl off that is made to pop off and remove the top piece. I was a little surprised to learn that these windows were made from 1962-70, so I really hope I have no trouble with the plastic liner.Anyway, thanks for the helpful information! Copyright That's Plan B! Surprisingly a single working balance does still hold the window up. DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent Measure the visible glass in either the upper or lower sash (assuming they are the same size). Good Luck. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. I was just on the phone with Anderson and ordered 4 of these balance boxes for $92 - cheaper than replacing a whole window, and I have 2 to repair. spring loaded in a metal box, with different tension springs depending on the size of the window(weight of the sash.

Id like to add that I recall someone this DIY forum mentioning that it was possible to open the units up and repair them.

You need to window size and the approximately age of the window. I found this old thread and was able to fix one of my Anderson windows. :) The cover isn't in danger of coming off since it's held in compression when in the installed position. Tell them you need the balance boxes for a Narrowline double hung. Do the same for the upper sash, then you can remove the head jamb liner at the top. I have attached pics.

Anderson is already a good quality if you don't buy it at a home improvement storego with their higher quality line if you wonna stick with them. I cant speak to repairing those as I have never had them apart like your neighbor, I throw them in the trash. Once you find your product unit number on the chart use the search box in the upper right corner of the website to find that product in the online store. Given a choice I would have gone with Pella.

Storage is easier as they will take up less space. I have fiberglass, double pane, single hung windows in my house. And if the string breaks you will probably break the vinyl head piece and then you will be replacing that as well! The half screens solved the problem for me! I wound the new line around the drum and used it to rewind the spring, repeating until it looked like the other one that was not broken. Feedback on tall (~8 ft) Marvin Ultimate casement window? Well done. To install, just reverse the above.A word of caution: some older units have brittle jamb liners, and you may want to replace them as well. Yes, I know the ones you mean that is the most common kind.

I've done it in the past and it's not much fun. I hope it helps someone like me who couldn't find any info on doing this and had to stumble through it.

We welcome your comments and Actually, the cost is 30 plus shipping = 38. The prices vary from $40-$50 depending on the exact size. Did you wind up it to look roughly like the remaining good one, THEN install all of the new length of cord on the wheel, then release the tension? If it doesn't, there is a heavier masons line available that is 216-pound test that I'll replace it with. Just had to repair Anderson Window Balancer. Not much pressure is required, if you have ground enough of the staking away. How to Balance Asymmetric Windows in a Room, Sash Window Hardware: Lifts, Pulls And Balances, Fiberglass windows- hard to open or close, Slow bathroom faucet with nozzle that can't be removed and cleaned, Question on replacement for old UEC Blower Motor. Still works fine with no issues. Function ok? I then took the uncoiled spring, heated the snapped end and holding the spring with Lineman's pliers while using again the needle nose pliers to reform the spring to look like the original. Website operating

When I open my double-pane bedroom window, the plastic part that I pull and that surrounds the glass becomes lose. I agree. I wanted first of all as much of a clear view and natural light coming in as possible without having the extreme cost of getting retractable screens (additional moving parts for headaches down the road as well super cool though). I couldnt' find real cord anywhere at retail. I started to put things back together before I remembered that the string must be put back in the housing first.

Would be interested to know how hard/easy it is. I'm glad to find it's doable since we have many other windows that will need repair. So to answer your question no they cannot be repaired or replaced with out the entire "mechanism".

Double Hung Sashes are all clear pine interior. the sash cord mechanisims are inset under that. Please feel free to check us out and give us a call at 619.665.9446 and visit our website at www.fenstermann.com. I have two mid 70's Pella windows (double hung) in need of new sash cords.

Instructions on how to replace the balancers on Andersen Narrow Line windows (CIG's): http://www.windowparts.com/v/vspfiles/assets/images/balance%20replacement.pdf, There is a video also on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obmqxeMfQmU.

There not very expensive, and it beats not having them when the old one breaks.You can find a dealer close to you by using the dealer locator on the Andersen website. They come in many materials and finishes. The process isn't too hard. The only thing I wont be able to do is open the window top and bottom at the same time but that is not an issue for me. When you call the supplier where you buy your Andersen parts, you'll want to give them the measurement of the visible glass on the sash, so they can match it to the correct unit in the parts catalog. All information is provided "AS IS." I think older ones (early 70s) had vinyl cases (bad idea) while newer ones were sheetmetal.

I have Anderson double hung windows that are origional to my home built in 1979. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be [url]https://imgur.com/a/M0Kxtrq[/url]. Me, I'm retired and on pretty much of a careful budget, so If I can just fix it, I just bloody-well will. Careful on the string you use from what i remember it was pretty strong string. I can't even find someone to make this repair for me.

I wish I had been able to find some heavier line but I think the masons line will likely last well enough. By clicking Accept I agree to this, as further described in the Houzz Cookie Policy.

For cord, I have slightly thinner tension cord from recovered discarded sash tracks. They will be helpful to future customers.

Id like to help her but her budget is small.

Its part of the balance assembly. The string has to make a 90 degree bend over a curved metal piece and I can see a wire wearing there or cutting through the metal. I measured the old cord, cut a replacement, re-wond the spring and held it in place by drilling a tiny hole through the plastic wheel and outer case(then held the wond spring and wheel in place by inserting a small screwdriver though the hole drilled in wheel and outer case), simply installed the string around the wheel, installed the plastic piece that goes into the window on the string and slowly released the tension from the wond wheel. If you do have success, (or not) maybe you could document your project and post the results here for others to benefit from. problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. Hi. Casement is always much more expensive than double hung but you don't have the horizontal bar in the middle that distracts your view. This Andersen replacement Sash/Counter Balancer is used on Narroline Double-hung windows manufactured from 1968 to 2012. They're visually appealing. Then released the c-clamp, while holding the spool with my thumb, and slowly allowing the tension to pull the plastic pellet into place against the housing hole. I am ordering Marvin windows with the authentic looking gills 3 over 3 on top similar to the photo of the nice home above. This insight on the pros and cons of window replacement or restoration can help, Reduce drafts to lower heating bills by swapping out old panes for new, in this DIY project for handy homeowners, Great home project: Replace your windows for enhanced style and function.

They will more than likely need to order the balance box for you.

The right diameter is all mason cord with no load specs at all! Is it any wonder double-hung windows are classics? Here are some neutral thoughts to get you through this process.