Windows That Won't Open or Close: Repair or Replace?

Windows that don't operate smoothly aren't just annoying—they're a safety concern. According to the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), operable windows are required for emergency egress in bedrooms.

Common Operation Problems

According to FGIA, operation issues include:

| Problem | Possible Causes | Repairability |
|---------|-----------------|---------------|
| Sticking | Paint, humidity, swelling | Usually fixable |
| Won't stay open | Failed balance mechanism | Often repairable |
| Won't lock | Worn or misaligned lock | Usually fixable |
| Sash falls | Broken spring balance | Depends on parts |
| Hard to crank (casement) | Worn operator | Repairable if parts available |

When It's Fixable

According to FGIA, these issues are typically repairable:

Paint buildup: Score paint line with utility knife, gently break seal

Humidity swelling: Wait for dry weather, sand high spots, seal wood

Failed balances: Replacement springs/balances available for many windows ($15-50/window)

Worn hardware: Locks, operators, hinges often replaceable

When Replacement Makes Sense

According to FGIA, consider replacement when:

Frame is warped: Wood frames can permanently warp from moisture. No hardware adjustment will fix geometry problems.

Parts unavailable: Older windows may have proprietary hardware no longer manufactured.

Multiple components failing: If balances, weatherstripping, and hardware all need work, total repair cost may approach replacement cost.

Safety concern: According to CPSC, bedroom windows must open easily for emergency escape. If repairs don't restore reliable operation, replacement is a safety issue.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis

According to FGIA, compare:

• Cost of all needed repairs
• Age and overall condition of windows
• Energy efficiency of current vs. new windows
• Expected lifespan after repair

If repairs cost more than 40-50% of replacement and windows are over 15 years old, replacement often makes more sense.

The Bottom Line

Many operation problems are fixable with hardware replacement or adjustment. But if the frame itself is the problem, or parts aren't available, replacement becomes the practical solution.

*For all replacement signs, see: [Signs Your Windows Need Replacing](/guides/signs-windows-need-replacing)*