You may not even realize it, but the windows that are in your home that open on the top and the bottom are called sash windows. These windows were first designed in the late nineteenth century. The appear in many homes in the original thirteen colonies. They became popular and are now used all over the world.

These windows are fantastic in the way that they control air flow in a home. By lowering or raising the sections you can direct the way that an outside breeze flows through the house. It is similar in the way that a fan has a setting for winter and summer months. The older windows of this kind can sometimes get stuck on the track. If this is annoying and can not be repaired then consider having them replaced with a more modern version. The new versions can tilt and can come with a double pane of glass.

They are called sash because the two sections are called sashes. You may notice that both parts are not the same. This is by design and does not affect the mechanics of the window. Some do have the same size sashes.

The problems that some people run into is not being able to close a section. Sometimes objects will get lodged withing the tracks. If you try forcing it closed it can damage the track or the other moving parts. A simple examination can reveal the object that is causing the problem.

When a house settles it may also warp the window frame. If that is the case, then you may need to have a general contractor or window specialist take a look. There is not much you can do on your own and it may result in the permanent disabling of the function of a window. This type of window can be fragile because of two moving parts. Being delicate with the windows can keep them functioning for many years.

Weather and climate can effect how a window functions. If the weather is hot it could make the sections too loose on the tracks. This translates to the windows opening and closing too quickly. If the top section is doing this then use caution. It can crash down and cause damage to the window and possibly you.

In the winter months the sash windows may be a little harder to open. By using a slow motion and a fair amount of pressure the sections should dislodge. Try to avoid wiggling unless this is the only way you can get it to move. During these months you could use a spray lubricant to keep the sections moving smoothly.