How to Fix a Vinyl Window That Won’t Stay Up (Sash Balance Repair)

You lift the sash, and—thud—it slides down like a guillotine. Frustrating and unsafe.

In most cases, a window that won’t stay up has a failed or mis-set balance system. This guide shows an average homeowner how to diagnose the exact issue, replace or re-tension balances, and troubleshoot stubborn problems—safely and step-by-step.

Related resources:

• Have frame damage instead? See How to Repair a Cracked Vinyl Window Frame (vinyl-window-frame-repair.html).
• Avoid the wrong lubricants: Can You Use Windex or WD-40 on Vinyl Windows? (windex-wd40-on-vinyl-windows.html)

Why Won’t My Window Stay Up? Understanding the Cause

The balance system is a spring mechanism that counterbalances the sash weight. When it breaks, detaches, or loses tension, the sash can no longer hold position and falls.

• What balances do: They store energy (via spring or coil) and apply upward force equal to the sash’s weight for smooth, stable operation.
• Where they live: Inside the jambs (the side tracks) on both sides of the sash.

If the cord or connector between the spring/coil and pivot shoe snaps or detaches, the sash loses counterbalance on that side and drops.

• Sign: You may see a frayed cord, a loose shoe stuck at the bottom, or hear the spring rattle.

Spiral balances use an internal spring and spiral rod. If the spring fails or tension is too low, the sash drifts down; if over-tensioned, it’s hard to lift.

• Sign: The spiral tip rotates freely with little resistance, or the tube is visibly damaged.

The pivot bar (on the sash) engages the balance shoe (in the track). If either cracks, strips, or breaks, the sash can’t stay engaged and will fall.

• Sign: Sash tilts unevenly; one side disengages from the track.

Before You Begin: The 3-Step Prep

Step 1: Safety First

Protect your hands/eyes and control the sash to prevent slamming.

• Wear safety glasses and cut-resistant gloves.
• Work with a partner for large or heavy sashes.
• Secure the sash with painter’s tape or a temporary prop while preparing removal.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools & Materials

You need basic hand tools and correct replacement parts.

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Replacement balances (pair) and/or pivot shoes
• Silicone spray lubricant (plastic-safe; not oil-based)
• Cleaning rags, mild soap solution
• Optional: Cordless driver, headlamp

Pro tip: Replace balances in pairs so tension matches on both sides.

Step 3: Crucial—How Do You Identify and Order the Correct Replacement Part?

Remove one old balance to identify type, size, and strength. Then match code/length/tip color with a reputable supplier.

• Identify balance type:
  • Block-and-tackle (channel) balance: Metal channel with pulley/cord.
  • Constant-force (coil) balance: Flat stainless-steel coil spring pack tied to the shoe.
  • Spiral balance: Round tube with a colored plastic tip and a spiral rod.
• Measurements and codes:
  • Block-and-tackle: Measure metal channel length (inches) and note the stamped code (e.g., “28C”). The code maps to sash weight range.
  • Spiral: Measure tube length (not spiral rod). Note tip color (strength) and tube diameter.
  • Constant-force: Identify coil number (e.g., 3, 4, 5) and stack count (single/double) on the shoe assembly.

Common spiral tip colors (typical ranges; verify with vendor):

Ordering tips:

• Photograph the old balance, codes, and the pivot shoe profile.
• Measure sash weight with a luggage scale for confirmation if codes are unclear.
• Reputable sources: Specialty window hardware retailers and manufacturer-authorized parts stores.

Step-by-Step Fix for a Vinyl Window That Won’t Stay Up

Answer first: Remove the sash, replace or re-tension the balances, re-engage the pivot shoes, and test for smooth, self-holding operation.

Step 1: How Do You Remove the Window Sash?

Tilt-in sashes release by unlatching, tilting 90°, and lifting the pivot bars out of the shoes.

1. Unlock the window; raise the sash 3–4 in.
2. Slide both tilt latches inward; tilt the sash toward you to 90°.
3. Lift one side up to free the pivot bar from the shoe; lift the other side out.
4. Place the sash on a padded surface.

Safety note: Support the sash evenly to avoid twisting the pivot bars.

Step 2: How Do You Remove the Old Window Balance?

Move the shoe to the access cutout, release it, and unscrew the balance from the jamb.

1. With a flathead, slide the shoe to the jamb cutout (often mid-height).
2. Rotate the shoe cam to align with the cutout and remove the shoe if required.
3. At the top of the jamb, remove the screw or clip securing the balance channel/tube.
4. Pull the balance straight out of the jamb.

Note: For constant-force systems, you may remove the shoe/coil pack through the cutout; keep coil stacks controlled.

Step 3: How Do You Install the New Window Balance?

Fasten the balance top, insert the shoe through the cutout, set it near sill level, and lightly lubricate the track.

1. Position the new balance and secure the top with its screw/clip.
2. Insert the pivot shoe through the cutout; seat it in the track.
3. Slide the shoe down to sill level.
4. Lightly apply silicone spray to the track and shoe faces for smooth travel.

Spiral balance note: You’ll set tension after the sash is reinstalled (see below).

Step 4: How Do You Re-install the Sash and Test?

Engage both pivot bars into the shoes, tilt upright until it clicks, then test travel and hold.

1. Align one pivot bar with its shoe and insert; repeat for the other side.
2. Tilt the sash back to vertical until the tilt latches click into the jambs.
3. Raise and lower the sash several times; it should hold at any position without drifting.

Spiral balance tensioning (if needed):

• With sash tilted out slightly, use a spiral balance tension tool or flathead to rotate the spiral tip 1/4–1/2 turn to add tension, then hook it to the pivot shoe. Repeat small adjustments until the sash holds but still lifts smoothly.

Post-Repair Troubleshooting: What to Do If…

…The Window Is Now Too Hard to Lift?

The balances may be too strong. Verify part code/tip color and reduce spiral tension slightly (1/4 turn at a time). Ensure tracks are clean, not over-lubed.

…The Window Still Drifts Down Slowly?

The balances may be undersized or mismatched. Confirm codes/tip color and replace both sides. Check that pivot shoes move freely and aren’t binding.

…The Balance Shoe Won’t Stay Down?

The spring is trying to retract. Use pliers to hold the shoe near the sill while you seat the pivot bar; that locks the cam and sets working height.

…The Sash Tilts or Binds on One Side?

One shoe may be higher than the other. Set both shoes to the same height before re-engaging the sash. Verify the pivot bars are straight and fully seated.

Maintenance tip: Clean tracks with mild soap and water; avoid petroleum oils. For cleaner/lubricant guidance, see Can You Use Windex or WD-40 on Vinyl Windows? (windex-wd40-on-vinyl-windows.html)

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Cost and Effort

DIY Cost

Most DIY balance replacements cost under \$40 per window in parts.

• Replacement balances: $15–$40 per pair
• Tools: Basic screwdrivers and pliers
• Time: 45–60 minutes the first time; faster afterward

Professional Repair Cost

Expect $150–$300 per window plus any service call minimum.

• Service call fee: $75–$150
• Labor + parts: $150–$300 per window (type and access dependent)

The Verdict: When Should You Call a Pro?

Call a pro if the frame is damaged, the glass is fogged (failed IGU), balances are inaccessible, or you’re not comfortable with spring tension procedures.

Finish and paint after repair?

• Prep guidance: How to Prepare Vinyl Windows for Painting

Conclusion

Answer first: You diagnosed a failed balance, replaced or re-tensioned it, and restored smooth, self-holding operation—safely.

You saved money, learned a practical skill, and extended your window’s life. If multiple components are failing or the glass is fogged, weigh repair vs. replacement with the resources above and proceed confidently.