Window Maintenance — How Often Should You Do It?
Windows are essential for light and security, but NYC’s harsh weather takes a toll. Neglecting maintenance leads to drafts, broken hardware, and costly repairs.
⭐ How Often?
Every 6–12 months. High-use windows or those facing busy streets/ocean should be inspected every 6 months.
Essential Maintenance Tasks
1. Clean Tracks, Jambs & Hinges
Dirt causes friction. Clean tracks, sash channels, and hinges to prevent sticking.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply silicone lubricant twice a year to balances, hinges, and locking points.
3. Inspect Weatherstripping
Replace if cracked or peeling to stop drafts and improve efficiency.
Book Your Maintenance Service
Call: 646-793-6444
Why Is My Double-Hung Window Hard to Open?
A double-hung window should open smoothly with one hand. If it jams, sticks, or requires force, immediate repair is needed to prevent damage.
Common Causes & Fixes
1 Broken Balances
If the window feels heavy or slams shut, balances have failed. Fix: Replace with new, calibrated units.
2 Dirty Tracks
Debris and paint buildup cause binding. Fix: Deep cleaning and lubrication.
3 Warped Frames (Older Buildings)
Wood expansion due to humidity. Fix: Plane the sash and correct alignment.
4 Painted Shut
Paint bridging the sash and frame. Fix: Professionally score paint and restore mobility.
Get Your Stuck Window Fixed
Call Now: 646-793-6444
When to Repair vs Replace Windows — NYC Expert Guide
Should you repair or replace? In NYC, repairs are often the smarter, more affordable choice unless structural damage is present.
When to REPAIR
- Foggy Glass: We replace just the IGU, not the frame.
- Hard to Open: New balances restore operation.
- Drafts: New weatherstripping and sash alignment fixes this.
- Broken Hardware: Locks and cranks are easily replaceable.
When to REPLACE
- Rotten Frames: Soft or crumbling wood requires replacement.
- 25+ Year Old Windows: Single-pane units are too inefficient.
- Widespread Failure: Warped frames across multiple units.
What Is the Difference Between Window Balances?
Balances are the engines of your window. We install the best options available.
1. Spiral Balances (Standard)
Features a spiral rod. Common in older windows. Affordable but requires occasional tensioning.
2. Block-and-Tackle (Modern)
Uses a spring and pulley system. Standard in vinyl/aluminum windows. Very smooth.
⭐ 3. Ultra-Lift (Constant Force) - Premium
Stainless steel coils provide constant tension. No cords to break. The most durable and smoothest option for NYC homes.
| Type | Smoothness | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spiral | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | $ |
| Block & Tackle | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $$ |
| Ultra-Lift | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$$ |
My Window Doesn’t Stay Up — What Should I Do?
A falling window is a safety hazard caused by failed balances. Do not ignore this issue.
Signs of Failure
- Window drops suddenly or slides down slowly.
- Window feels extremely heavy to lift.
- Sash opens unevenly (crooked).
- Grinding or snapping sounds from the frame.
⚠ Safety Warning: Do not try to fix this yourself. Balances are under high tension. DIY attempts can lead to injury or glass breakage.
Our Fix: We identify the correct weight, safely remove the sash, install new high-strength balances, and recalibrate the window.
Make Your Windows Safe Again
Book Repair: 646-793-6444
Historical Wooden Window Restoration vs Replacement
Historic wood windows are part of NYC’s identity. Should you restore or replace? The answer depends on condition and landmark rules.
When to RESTORE
- Preservation: Keep original old-growth lumber (rot-resistant).
- Landmarks: Required for LPC compliance in historic districts.
- Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than custom replacements.
- Aesthetics: Keeps unique moldings and wavy glass.
When to REPLACE
- Severe Rot: Structural failure where wood is crumbling.
- Energy: Moving to modern Triple-Pane or high-efficiency units.
- Maintenance: If you want a maintenance-free solution.
| Feature | Restore | Replace |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Accuracy | Excellent | Varies |
| Cost | Usually Lower | Higher |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate (with upgrades) | High |
| Landmark Approval | Easiest | Requires Permit |
Preserve History. Improve Performance.
Call: 646-793-6444
Double-Hung Window Hardware Explained
Understanding the parts inside your window helps identify problems early. Here is our guide to the essential components.
1 Sashes (Upper & Lower)
The movable parts holding the glass. Issues: Sticking, dropping, or misalignment.
2 Window Balances
Counterweights that hold the window open. Most critical part. When they fail, the window slams shut.
3 Jamb Liners
Vertical tracks that guide the sash. If cracked or warped, sashes will pop out.
4 Tilt Latches
Allow the window to tilt in for cleaning. If broken, the sash may fall inward unexpectedly.
5 Pivot Shoes & Bars
Connect the sash to the balance system. A broken shoe leads to a jammed window.
6 Locks & Keepers
Essential for security and sealing. Misaligned locks allow drafts to enter.
Need Hardware Replacement?
We stock parts for all major brands and historic windows.
Order Repairs: 646-793-6444
Broken or Weak Window Balances — Signs & Solutions
If your window is hard to lift or won't stay open, the balances are failing. This affects the entire operation of the window.
7 Signs Your Balances Are Broken
- Window Won't Stay Open: Sash drops suddenly (Safety Hazard).
- Extremely Hard to Lift: Requires two hands or force.
- Uneven Opening: Sash is crooked/tilted.
- Slams Shut: Springs have snapped.
- Won't Lock: Sash doesn't reach the meeting rail.
- Pop Out: Sash disengages from the track.
- Noises: Rattling, grinding, or snapping sounds.
What Causes Failure?
Age (10-20 years), heavy sashes (IGU), rust from moisture, and debris in tracks are the main culprits.
Our Professional Solution
- Exact-Match Replacement: We calibrate weight perfectly.
- Upgrade Option: Install Ultra-Lift constant force balances.
- Full Tune-Up: Realign sash, replace pivot shoes, and lubricate.
Fix Your Broken Balances Today
Safe, smooth, reliable windows — repaired right the first time.
Call Now: 646-793-6444
