Common Double Hung Window Problems (and How We Fix Them in Texas!)
- Longhorn Windows
- Mar 14
- 4 min read
Double hung windows are a timeless favorite across Texas homes. Loved for their versatility and ventilation benefits, they suit everything from charming Hill Country farmhouses to sleek suburban builds in Sugar Land or Austin. But like all hardworking features in your home, they aren’t immune to wear and tear.
If you’re noticing drafts, stuck sashes, or rattling frames, it may be time to take a closer look at your windows. Here’s a breakdown of the most common double hung window problems—and how Longhorn Windows fixes them with that signature Texas craftsmanship.
What Makes Double Hung Windows Unique?
Before we dive into the issues, let’s quickly review what makes these windows special.
Double hung windows feature two operable sashes that move vertically within the frame. This means you can open both the top and bottom for optimal airflow, making them perfect for Texas’ warm climate.
Advantages:
Improved ventilation
Classic aesthetic that suits a variety of home styles
Easier to clean (especially newer tilt-in models)
But like any mechanical system, frequent use and environmental stressors can take their toll.
Sticking or Jammed Sashes
The problem: One of the most frequent complaints from homeowners is sashes that won’t budge or feel "off track."
The cause:
Paint buildup along the frame (common in older Texas homes)
Warping from extreme humidity and heat
Dirt or debris clogging the tracks
How we fix it: At Longhorn Windows, we’ll inspect the sash channels and remove debris or hardened paint. If warping is an issue, we recommend frame realignment or in some cases, sash replacement. For historic homes, we also offer custom solutions that preserve the window’s character while improving function.
Drafts & Energy Loss
The problem: Feeling a breeze when your windows are closed? That’s a red flag.
The cause:
Worn weatherstripping
Loose sash locks
Poor sealing around the window frame
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use—a costly issue in Texas’ scorching summers.
How we fix it: We’ll replace or upgrade weatherstripping with high-quality, Texas-tested materials and realign sashes and locks to ensure a tight seal. For windows past their prime, we may recommend energy-efficient window replacements to help cut those HVAC bills.
Broken or Worn-Out Balances
The problem: When you open your window and it immediately slams shut or refuses to stay open, you’ve likely got a broken window balance (also known as the spring or counterweight system).
The cause:
Springs or cords inside the balance mechanism have snapped or worn out
The spiral balance may have lost tension over time
How we fix it: Longhorn Windows offers precision balance replacement, restoring your window’s smooth operation. We also carry heavy-duty balances designed to stand up to Texas’ rugged climate, offering longer-lasting performance.
Foggy or Condensation-Filled Panes
The problem: You notice moisture trapped between the glass panes, creating a foggy or cloudy look.
The cause:
A failed window seal is allowing moisture to infiltrate the space between the panes, compromising both energy efficiency and clarity.
How we fix it: Depending on severity, we may recommend replacing the insulated glass unit (IGU) while preserving the existing window frame. In cases where multiple windows are affected or if the window is outdated, a full window replacement may provide a better ROI.
Rattling Windows
The problem: Your window rattles whenever the wind kicks up—a common issue in older Texas homes or during storm season.
The cause:
Loose or worn sash channels
Gaps in the frame due to settlement or warping
Missing weatherstripping
How we fix it: Our team reinforces sash channels, replaces worn-out gaskets, and improves frame sealing to stop that annoying rattle once and for all.
Rotting Wood Frames
The problem: Visible wood rot around the window frame or sill—not uncommon in humid regions like Houston or Galveston.
The cause:
Water infiltration over time
Lack of proper maintenance
Texas’ famous humidity swings combined with driving rains
How we fix it: We can replace rotted wood sections or recommend a full frame replacement with low-maintenance, rot-resistant materials like vinyl or fiberglass.
Why Texas Homes Are Extra Vulnerable
Texas homeowners battle unique climate challenges, including:
Intense heat and UV rays that warp materials
Seasonal humidity that leads to swelling, rot, and seal degradation
Dust storms and wind gusts (looking at you, West Texas!) that clog or damage tracks
Longhorn Windows installs and services products specifically designed to withstand Texas’ tough weather conditions—no one-size-fits-all fixes here.
How Longhorn Windows Delivers Lasting Solutions
When you work with Longhorn Windows, you get more than just a quick patch job.
Here’s how we go above and beyond:
Free inspections to assess the full scope of the problem
Tailored recommendations based on your home’s style, climate, and budget
Energy-efficient upgrades that align with Texas’ growing trend toward greener living
Licensed, local technicians who know Texas homes inside and out
Pro Tip: Pair your window repair or replacement with UV-resistant coatings or Low-E glass to further boost comfort and energy savings.
Time to Fix Your Double Hung Windows?
Don’t let small issues become costly headaches. If your double hung windows are sticking, leaking, or fogging up, it’s time to call the pros.
Schedule your free consultation with Longhorn Windows today and let’s get your Texas home back to peak performance.
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