Single-hung and double-hung windows
Both styles open by sliding a sash up and down. On a single-hung window only the bottom sash moves. On a double-hung window both sashes move, and many tilt in for cleaning. They rely on balances hidden in the side tracks to hold the sash wherever you leave it, so most problems come down to a few parts.
Common problems we fix
Sash won’t stay up
The window slides down on its own or slams shut. The balances in the side tracks are broken or worn out, or on older windows the sash cords have snapped. We replace the balances or cords.
Hard to open or stuck
Dirty or painted-over tracks, a swollen wood sash or a balance that has seized. We clean, free up and adjust the sash so it slides smoothly.
Won’t lock or close tight
The sash lock and keeper no longer line up, or the lock is broken. We realign or replace the lock so the sashes pull tight together.
Drafts around the sashes
Worn weatherstripping along the sides, top, bottom or where the sashes meet. We replace the seals to stop cold air.
Tilt latches broken
The small latches at the top of a tilt-in sash are cracked, so it won’t tilt or won’t stay in. We replace the latches.
Foggy or broken glass
We replace the sealed glass unit in the sash and keep your existing window. See foggy window repair.
Repair or replace?
A sash that won’t stay up or a sticky track is a parts problem, not a reason to replace the window. As long as the frame and sashes are sound, a repair costs far less than a new window. If the frame is rotted or badly warped, we’ll tell you. Read more on window repair vs replacement.
What it costs
Double-hung repairs are priced the same as our other window hardware: typically $99–$249 per window, installed, depending on which parts are needed (balances, locks or tilt latches). Hardware repairs include a $149 service call, which is credited toward the repair. Use See my price for an estimate, or send a photo. Photos of the side tracks and any labels on the balances help us bring the right parts.
Common questions
Why won’t my double-hung window stay open?
The balances in the side tracks have broken or worn out, or on older windows the sash cords have snapped. Replacing the balances or cords lets the sash stay where you leave it again.
Can you fix a single-hung window too?
Yes. Single-hung windows use the same balances, locks and seals, and we repair them the same way.
Do I need new windows if the sash keeps falling?
No. A falling sash is almost always a balance problem, and balances can be replaced on your existing window.
