Window woes

I’ve owned a co-op apartment in a large building for about 5 years and have had constant issues with the windows. The windows aren’t original – probably date to when the building went from office to co-op, but were apparently re-glazed not too long before I purchased the place. The windows are huge. The previous owner opted to have a heavier, more sound-insulating glass installed. Unfortunately the result of that is that the spring balances constantly break. When the upper sash balances break the top sash sags open and has to be screwed in place. When the lower sash balances break the window can’t be opened. Every time I get one fixed it costs over $500 (depending on how many balances and other components have broken) and can take months to get repaired because of the unusual size of the balances. We have been using WindowFix since they were the contractor recommended by management but any suggestions for other companies to try would be much appreciated. I only have 3 windows so having only 1 inoperable has a significant impact and I currently have 2 inoperable. Any sugg estions for other things to try? (building is in a hsitoric district, so replacing altogether isn’t really an option, that’s probably what caused this problem to begin with.) Help or commiseration, offer what you can!

Guest User | 5 years and 10 months ago

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Guest User | 5 years and 10 months ago

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Thanks Bob! I already have WindowFix coming to do the repair this time but I know it will happen again. I’ll see if they have any suggestions for a longer-term fix too.

RobertGMarvin

in General Discussion 5 years and 10 months ago

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We’ve been using Prestige Windows for years to replace the spring balances in our heavy triple-glazed windows. The last time the balances went in our largest windows they replaced them with over-sized balances that were expensive, but work much better than the originals. Perhaps that might solve your problem. Prestige’s number is 718-686-9300.