Decoding Spiral Window Balance Tip Colors for Optimal Window Support

Spiral window balances are vital components in the functionality of double-hung windows, offering essential support for their smooth operation. Among the various features that distinguish these balances, the tip color holds particular significance. It not only adds an aesthetic touch but also serves as a visual guide, indicating specific characteristics crucial for proper window function. In this article, we will explore the distinctions in spiral window balance tip colors and how to understand their implications.

• Yellow Tip: Robust Heavy-Duty Support

A yellow-tipped spiral window balance signals heavy-duty support, designed to bear the weight of larger or heavier windows. When dealing with substantial window sizes, opting for a yellow-tipped balance is essential to ensure stability and longevity. The yellow tip visually communicates that this balance is engineered to handle increased weight, providing the necessary reinforcement for optimal window performance. Yellow-tipped balances support a sash weight range of 24-34 lbs for our 40 Series, 50 Series and 55 Series Spiral Window Balances.

• Green Tip: Standard Support for Average-Sized Windows

The green-tipped spiral window balance represents a standard choice suitable for most windows. Striking a balance between strength and flexibility, the green tip is ideal for average-sized double-hung windows commonly found in residential settings. If your windows fall within the typical weight range, selecting a green-tipped balance ensures reliable and efficient support for everyday use. Green-tipped balances support a sash weight range of 14-26 lbs for our 40 Series, 50 Series and 55 Series Spiral Window Balances.

• Blue Tip: Standard Support for Smaller Windows

For smaller or lighter windows, the blue-tipped spiral window balance offers the right level of support without unnecessary rigidity. The blue tip is the preferred choice when dealing with windows that are not too large or quite as heavy. Implementing a blue-tipped balance for lighter weight windows helps maintain the balance between support and ease of use, ensuring smooth operation without putting unnecessary stress on the window mechanism. Blue-tipped balances support a sash weight range of 14-26 lbs for our 40 Series, 50 Series and 55 Series Spiral Window Balances. They can support a sash weight range of 13-31 lbs for our 100 Series, 200 Series and 230 Series Spiral Window Balances.

• Red Tip: Light Duty Support 

The red-tipped spiral window balance is crafted for the smallest and lightest windows, such as those found in unique architectural designs or smaller spaces like bathrooms. This light duty option ensures that windows receive the support they need without compromising on their delicate structure. The red tip is a clear indicator of the balance's capacity to provide minimal yet effective support. Red-tipped balances support a sash weight range of 8-22 lbs for our 40 Series, 50 Series and 55 Series Spiral Window Balances. They can support a sash weight range of 9-30 lbs for our 100 Series, 200 Series and 230 Series Spiral Window Balances.

• White Tip: Extra Light Duty Support 

The white-tipped balance offers extra light duty support. Positioned before the red tips, the white tip is designed to cater to a range of window sizes and even lighter weight ranges. The white-tipped balance provides homeowners with an additional option for achieving optimal support without the need for heavy-duty reinforcement. White-tipped balances support a sash weight range of 4-22 lbs for our 40 Series, 50 Series and 55 Series Spiral Window Balances. They can support a sash weight range of 4-21 lbs for our 100 Series, 200 Series and 230 Series Spiral Window Balances.

Conclusion

Deciphering the meanings behind spiral window balance tip colors is essential for maintaining the longevity and functionality of double-hung windows. Whether it's the robust yellow, standard green, standard blue, lightweight red, or the extra light duty white tip, each color serves a specific purpose in providing the right level of support for windows of various sizes and weights.

Next time you're faced with the task of selecting or replacing spiral window balances, pay attention to the tip color to ensure optimal performance tailored to your window's needs. For more information about spiral window balance tip colors (especially if your balance tip color isn’t shown here) or help ordering replacement balances, contact the WHD Team! Our window experts will be more than happy to set you up with the correct spiral balances.