About Spiral Window Balances: What to Know

While window balances are typically hidden within the window assembly, they are critical pieces that make it easier and less strenuous to raise and lower a window, as well to hold it in position. A balance that has failed will make it much more difficult to open the window, as you will not only be struggling against the weight of the sash, but also against whatever friction it incurs by sliding in the frame. 

Moreover, not all window balances are the same, so knowing what’s wrong, what part needs to be replaced, or how to find the right window balance replacement, means that you need to know what you have in the first place. 

On that note, this post will cover some of the specifics of one type of balance known as a spiral window balance. So with that said, let’s get into what they are, how they work, how to identify them, and how to make sure you can find the right replacement window balance if you ever need one. 

What Is a Window Balance in the First Place?

We have to crawl before we can walk, so the first question we need to answer is this: regardless of what type of balance we’re talking about, what does a window balance do in the first place?

To keep things as basic as possible, a window balance is a device (or system, if you will) that counterweights the weight of the window sash, that part that fits in the frame and carries the window glass. 

Basically, the balance offsets the weight of the sash so that it is easier for you to lift it and open the window. It results in much less effort to open and close the window, as well as to secure it in an open position. 

Now, there are many different types of window balances, some of which use weights, and others which use springs. This post will cover spiral window balances.

What Is a Spiral Window Balance?

A spiral window balance is a special type of window balance consisting of a metal cylinder or tube that houses a spiral rod of metal. This “spiral” component (hence the name) is connected to a spring that provides the offsetting force. The spring can be adjusted with a tensioner tool to adjust how much force is delivered. 

This makes spiral window balances among the most modular of all window balance configurations because the tension can be set to a level appropriate for the weight of the sash. It also potentially means that one spiral window balance can be used with more than one window. 

How Do I Know If I Have a Spiral Window Balance?

Your window has a spiral window balance if you can see the spiral bar protruding from the end of the tube that houses it. This contrasts with other types of window balances such as block and tackle and coil balances. 

How Do Spiral Balances Stack Up Against Block and Tackle Balances?

Another common type of window balance is what is known as a block and tackle balance. Whereas in a spiral balance, a bar and spring provide the tension and force to assist with opening the window, a block and tackle balance is fundamentally different. 

In the block and tackle balance configuration, which is much more complex, there is a pulley (the block), the tackle (a spring) and a cord that connects them. When you open a window with a block and tackle balance, the spring and pulley together provide the force needed to offset the weight of the window. 

By contrast to spiral window balances, block and tackle balances offer smoother operation and better control of the window, and they also tend to be more durable and longer-lasting overall than their spiral balance counterparts. On top of that, block and tackle balances can work with a higher load, which means they can be used with larger, heavier sashes and windows. 

With that said, the block and tackle balance’s complexity is a detractor in design, which makes the whole thing more expensive. They’re harder to manufacture which makes them more expensive than otherwise comparable spiral balances. 

Worse, installing a black and tackle balance is harder than installing a spiral window balance, and takes greater expertise (and time) to make sure it is properly installed. 

Lastly, block and tackle balances take up more space in the window frame, which can make it harder to retrofit them in some situations. 

But all in all, both of these, within their respective scopes, can be suitable window balances. You just need to know which type you have if you are in the market for a replacement, before you buy it.

How to Measure Spiral Window Balances

In order to know what sort of spiral window balance you have (or, for instance, to find a window balance replacement) you need to know how to measure it. 

The first measurement you need to take is for the width of the metal tube that houses the tension spring and the spiral itself. The most common widths for spiral window balances are 3/8" and 5/8" sometimes 5/8" and 9/16” are used interchangeably. 

After you have the balance tube width, you need to measure the length of the tube. When doing so, only measure the length of the metal tube itself. Do not measure the spiral that protrudes from the end, or the colored coupling. 

We understand that this can potentially get confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the components of a window or don’t know how they work. We’re here to help; anytime you have a question or are not sure what you’re looking at or working with, get in touch with us.

Here for a Window Balance Replacement?

Not sure which type (or size) of window balance replacement you need? Give us a call at 727-386-4629 to speak with a live person who can help you find the parts your window needs. We’re here to help and happy to do so.