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Common Window Problems

Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009

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My windows won't open.
Older windows often don't open because:
- They are painted shut.
  - To open these windows, work a putty knife around the edge of the window sash. However, if the window is old and in poor condition, consider a replacement window instead.
- The hardware is broken.
  - Replace the hardware.
- The frame or sash is warped or broken.
  - A condition often caused by the house settling. The window should be removed and the opening reframed. Insert a new replacement window after the opening is finished.

My window looks old and unattractive.
This is a common problem in older houses particularly where the windows probably have outlived their time. The wood may be warped or cracked. If the house was built with inexpensive windows, the look might not be appealing.

Paint or Replace Windows?
When remodeling, a short-term solution is to paint the windows. You might get by for awhile with that approach, but the long-term remodeling solution is to turn to a wood or vinyl replacement window.

New Home Replacement Windows
When buying a home replacement window, look for one that matches the style of your existing windows. Try adding nice trim around the windows to help them blend with other architectural details.

My windows are drafty.
Old windows often leak, leading to high heating and cooling bills. A short-term solution is to buy weather stripping to fill in the holes. A long-term solution is to replace old, drafty windows with new, energy efficient replacement windows. Today's windows have many benefits, such as two panes instead of one and Low-E glass for added energy savings.

My windows are difficult to keep clean.
Older windows were not designed for easy cleanings, which is a priority for today's busy homeowners. New replacement windows are designed so that the sash tilts inward for easy cleaning. There also are home replacement windows with grilles built into the glass. This design gives you the look you want without the hassles of cleaning around grilles.

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