Am trying to replace channel balances on double hung windows. One of the channel balances has broken away and is simply sliding up and down with the sash.

I read a ton last night about removing sashes by opening up a "takeout tab" and sliding the sash up to that tab. I searched all over for this tab and it doesn't exist on my window.

Looks to me like there's simply a plastic frame that has a channel for each sash. And the channel balance appears to just be nailed to the plastic frame. I see no other way to get the sashes out than to tear up the whole plastic frame and take it out whole.

If fact, I think that's what a previous owner tried to do. Looks like he sliced off the little 1/4" lip that runs vertically along the front of the sash (basically a barrier to keep the sash aligned in the channel).

Anybody familiar with this type of window? And if the sashes are removable (without destruction)? I'd like to know that this is fairly common/replaceable before I go into demo mode. I can try and take pictures if my descriptions are too terrible.

 

It's difficult to describe exactly what your problem is since there are different systems that use channel balances The most common has a "takeout clip" that fits into 2 slots about 3/4" apart cut into the track. If you see this then the takeout clip is missing. A picture will show us exactly what you have.

 

Do the sashes tilt out for cleaning? Of so, the sash should be removable.

 

My first attempt at using Photobucket..........

Image hosting, free photo sharing & video sharing at Photobucket

Let me know if they're still not accessible.

As the pictures show, the left side if functional and the right side channel balance is broken (and has come apart from the plastic framing that holds both sashes). My guess is that I'll have to rip out the entire plastic framing to get the sashes out.

 

I think the window you have must be removed by removing the window stops and remove the entire window with the tracks since they are jamb liners. Go to this website for instructions and parts. Click on ACCESS CATALOG........WINDOW & DOOR CATALOG.......WINDOW BALANCES & ACCESSORIES and finally 62A BALANCES. Since they only sell to the trade, they will tell you where you can purchase parts in your area.

 

There is a website you point out below but there is no hotlink or web address. Can you please provide the name of the website or web address?

I really appreciate your help! Now to decide whether or not it's worth it to tear out the window!

 

Sorry, it disappeared!!!! Strybuc Industries-Nationwide Distributor of Replacement Window Hardware and Door hardware When you get to the site, click the above links on the site.