When the temperature starts to drop, your home’s windows play a big role in keeping the cold out and the warmth in. Double hung windows are a popular choice for their classic look and functional design, but like anything that moves, they can wear down over time. Catching small issues early—especially before winter—can save you money, discomfort, and bigger repairs down the line.
If you’re unsure whether your double hung windows are ready for the season ahead, here are the most common warning signs to watch for.
1. Drafts or Cold Air Leaks
One of the clearest indicators that your window needs attention is feeling a chilly draft, even when the window is closed. If cold air sneaks in around the edges or along the sash, you could be dealing with:
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- Worn-out weather stripping
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- A poor seal around the frame
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- Slight warping in the window components
Left unchecked, drafts can lead to uneven indoor temperatures and rising heating bills—all avoidable with a simple repair or seal replacement.
2. Difficulty Opening or Closing the Sashes
If your window sticks, jams, or refuses to slide smoothly, that’s more than just an annoyance—it’s a signal that something isn’t working properly. Double hung windows rely on tracks and balance mechanisms to allow both the upper and lower sashes to move up and down.
Common causes of resistance or jamming include:
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- Dirty or debris-filled tracks
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- Damaged or misaligned frames
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- Broken or worn sash balances
When your window becomes difficult to operate, it may stop locking securely—making your home less safe and less energy efficient.
3. Dropped or Slamming Sashes
Have you ever opened the top or bottom sash and had it suddenly drop or slam shut without warning? This usually means the sash balance mechanism is broken or disconnected. These internal components help hold the sash in place when it’s open.
When these parts fail:
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- The sash won’t stay open
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- The window may feel heavy or unstable
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- You risk injury if the sash suddenly falls while someone is operating it
This is a repair best left to a professional, especially if the balance springs or pivot locks need replacement.
4. Visible Damage to the Frame or Glass
Cracks in the windowpane, chipped corners, or visible warping in the frame should never be ignored—especially before winter.
These kinds of damage can:
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- Compromise the insulation of your window
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- Let in moisture, which leads to mold or rot
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- Worsen rapidly with exposure to snow, wind, or ice
Repairing or replacing damaged components before the first freeze helps preserve your window’s structure and keeps your home sealed tight.
5. Condensation Between the Panes
Modern double hung windows often feature double- or triple-pane glass filled with insulating gas. If you notice fog or moisture between the panes that doesn’t wipe away from the inside or outside, the seal between the glass layers has failed.
This seal failure means:
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- Your window has lost its insulating ability
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- The gas (usually argon or krypton) has leaked out
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- Your window is now far less efficient at keeping cold air out
In most cases, this isn’t a DIY fix. A professional can replace the glass unit or recommend a full window replacement if the damage is extensive.
6. Rattling or Loose Fittings
Windows that rattle when the wind picks up or feel loose in their tracks could be showing signs of:
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- Loose fasteners
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- Warped sashes
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- Frame separation
While it might not seem like a big deal, a rattling window in the winter often points to energy loss, potential water leaks, and long-term wear that only gets worse with freeze-thaw cycles.
Why Winter Makes These Issues Worse
Cold weather puts added pressure on your windows—literally. As temperatures drop:
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- Materials contract, which can widen gaps and cracks
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- Moisture can freeze in small openings and expand, causing further damage
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- Heat loss through failing windows becomes more noticeable—and more expensive
That’s why fall is the perfect time to check your windows and get repairs done before the real cold settles in.
When You Can DIY—and When You Should Call a Pro
Some minor issues, like cleaning tracks or replacing weather stripping, can be handled with a quick trip to the hardware store. Lubricating the window’s moving parts and tightening visible screws are also easy fixes.
But if you’re dealing with:
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- Broken sash balances
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- Foggy or cracked glass
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- Frame warping
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- Consistent air leaks despite sealing
…it’s best to let a professional handle it. These repairs often require specific tools and experience to ensure the problem doesn’t come back—or get worse.
Final Signs It’s Time for Window Repair Before Winter
Your double hung windows work hard to protect your home from the elements. If they’re struggling to open, leaking air, or showing visible signs of damage, those little problems won’t fix themselves. And once the snow flies or temperatures drop below freezing, repairs can become more urgent—and more expensive.
Catching these signs now means:
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- A warmer, more comfortable winter
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- Lower heating bills
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- Fewer surprises when storms hit
Not sure if your windows need help? Let the experts at Boston Doors and Windows inspect, repair, or replace your double hung windows before winter hits. We’ll help you stay cozy, energy-efficient, and worry-free all season long.
Contact us today to schedule your pre-winter window checkup.
