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Simonton sash moves smoothly but won’t stay raised
What can cause a Simonton double-hung sash to drift down after it’s been raised, even when it moves smoothly and appears level on both sides? I’m curious whether the timing matters: does an immediate drop point to something different from a gradual slide, and is the sash staying up at some heights but not others useful information?
Would the series name or markings on the sash or balance help narrow this down? I’d also like to know what can be checked safely before removing the sash, and when it’s better to leave adjustment or repair to a window professional.
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2 replies
Timing and holding height are useful clues, but they don’t identify a failed part on their own. If the sash drops immediately at every height, the balance may not be providing enough counterforce. If it holds at some heights but slides at others, support may be uneven through its travel.
The series or balance markings may help a professional identify the right replacement if an inspection points to one.
Before removing the sash, make sure its locks are fully disengaged and look for visible damage or a balance disconnected from its shoe, if you can see it with the window open. If the balance is concealed, access would require sash removal, or a spring-loaded part is loose, stop there. Removing or adjusting those parts can release stored force, so that work is better left to a window professional.