How to fix metal sash windows?

[hessian86]

Hi there 

We have these metal sash windows in a house we moved into, and they are all broken, not holding their weight or staying open. 

Some have a spindle in the bottom half, some have plastic corrugated tubing in the top half. Can these be repaired, and how? Would I need to remove the frames? 

Thanks

   

[JacobZ]

Hi @hessian86,

Thank you for your question about fixing your sash windows.

You shouldn't need to replace the frames, but it seems like you're going to have to replace the spiral balances.  

Our supplier Whitco makes a variety of Whitco Spiral Sash Window Balances for different weights and heights of windows.

They can be a bit confusing, so if you could provide some measurements, I can get in touch with them for their advice on what your best option is for replacement.

I'll need to know the height of the window, as well as the overall measurement of the existing spiral balances. The spiral balance on the inside frame may be shorter than the ones on the outside, so measure each spiral individually. If you can see an identifying number on them, this would also certainly help.

Let me know how you go.

Jacob

[hessian86]

Thanks Jacob, the parts have mostly fallen apart or disconnected, so it is quite hard to measure an existing item. The total height of the window (closed) is about 100cm

Thanks

Christian   

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @hessian86,

I've spoken with the support team at Whitco, who have told me, based on your measurement and their knowledge of the rough weight of aluminium framed windows, you should be able to use these Whitco 2.25 - 7.2kg Window Spiral Balance - With Standard Foot Attached.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[hessian86]

Hi Jacob, I have installed half of the spiral balances, the foot screws into a metal piece, that slides into the base of the frame. I am missing some of these, can you suggest something to replace it? The existing ones are quite rusted as well. Thanks 

 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @hessian86,

If you can slide one of the rusted metal pieces out, I’d recommend taking a quick measurement of its width and thickness. There’s a chance it could be replaced with a cut section of aluminium flat bar, which you can pick up from Bunnings in various sizes. If the dimensions match or are close enough to give you a snug fit, that might be a simple and rust-resistant alternative.

If there’s a recessed cavity where that metal section slots in—and you can access it from the side—you might also be able to cut a piece of timber to fit snugly in that space. That would give you something solid to screw the spiral balance foot into. Just make sure it’s secure and won’t shift over time with the weight of the sash. Either of those options could work depending on the exact setup and how much space you’ve got to work with.

Mitchell