Introduction

Do your windows feel drafty? Do they fog up or get stuck when you try to open them? You’re not alone. Many homeowners deal with these same problems every day.

This article will walk you through 10 of the most common window problems and how to fix them. We’ll use simple language, offer easy tips, and give you real solutions.

Whether you’re a DIY homeowner or just want to know what’s going wrong, this guide is for you.

Why Fixing Window Problems Matters

Windows are more than just glass in your wall. They help keep your home warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and safe from the weather.

But when windows don’t work right, they can:

• Let in cold air or heat
• Raise your energy bills
• Let in moisture, mold, or even pests

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 30% of a home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through poorly performing windows.

Fixing these problems saves money, keeps your home comfy, and helps your windows last longer.

1. Drafty Windows

What’s the Problem?

You feel cold air coming in around the window, even when it’s shut.

Why It Happens:

• Worn-out weather stripping
• Gaps in the frame
• Poor sealing around the edges

How to Fix It:

• Replace the weather stripping (easy and cheap)
• Use caulk to seal gaps between the frame and wall
• Install insulating film in the winter

Tip: Hold a candle near the window edges on a windy day. If the flame flickers, air is getting in.

2. Foggy or Cloudy Glass

What’s the Problem?

Your window looks cloudy and you can’t wipe it clean. The fog is inside the glass.

Why It Happens:

This is a sign of seal failure in double or triple-pane windows. Moisture gets between the panes.

How to Fix It:

• For minor fogging: hire a pro to defog the window
• For full seal failure: you’ll likely need to replace the glass unit

Fact: Foggy glass lowers energy efficiency and reduces your view. Energy Star notes that broken seals can increase heat loss by up to 25%.

3. Stuck or Hard-to-Open Windows

What’s the Problem?

The window won’t open easily or at all.

Why It Happens:

• Dirt in the track
• Swollen wood from moisture
• Broken springs or hardware

How to Fix It:

• Clean the track with a brush and vacuum
• Use silicone spray to lubricate moving parts
• If wood is swollen, sanding may help
• Replace broken parts like springs or cranks

Safety Note: A stuck window is also a fire escape risk. Always make sure at least one window opens in every room.

4. Condensation on the Inside of the Glass

What’s the Problem?

Water gathers on the inside of your windows.

Why It Happens:

• High indoor humidity
• Poor air circulation
• Window not insulating well

How to Fix It:

• Use a dehumidifier
• Run bathroom and kitchen fans
• Keep blinds open to allow airflow
• Add window insulation film in winter

Reminder: This isn’t the same as fog between the glass panes. That’s a different issue (see Problem #2).

5. Rotting or Warped Window Frames

What’s the Problem?

The window frame looks soft, warped, or cracked.

Why It Happens:

• Water damage over time
• Poor paint or sealant
• Old age

How to Fix It:

• For small damage: remove the rot and fill with wood epoxy
• For large damage: replace the frame or even the full window
• Paint or seal new wood to protect it

Pro Tip: Vinyl or fiberglass windows are less likely to rot compared to wood.

6. Windows Won’t Stay Open

What’s the Problem?

You push the window open, but it slides back down.

Why It Happens:

• Broken balance springs (in double-hung windows)
• Damaged sash cords

How to Fix It:

• Replace the sash springs or cords
• These parts are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores

Fact: This is one of the most common window problems in homes with older double-hung windows.

7. Water Leaks Around the Window

What’s the Problem?

You see water on the wall or windowsill during or after rain.

Why It Happens:

• Poor sealing around the window
• Cracked or missing caulk
• Improper flashing or siding issues

How to Fix It:

• Re-caulk around the window frame
• Check flashing and replace if damaged
• If leaking continues, contact a professional to check deeper water damage

Danger: Left untreated, leaks can lead to mold or structural damage.

8. Outside Noise Coming Through

What’s the Problem?

You hear traffic, people, or other outdoor noise clearly inside.

Why It Happens:

• Single-pane windows
• Gaps or poor insulation
• Old or broken seals

How to Fix It:

• Upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane windows
• Use soundproof curtains
• Seal any air gaps with foam or caulk

Fact: The EPA notes that upgraded windows can reduce outside noise by up to 50%, depending on the type.

9. Cracks in the Glass

What’s the Problem?

Your window has small or large cracks.

Why It Happens:

• Impact from objects
• Foundation shifting
• Glass stress due to temperature changes

How to Fix It:

• For small cracks: use clear nail polish or epoxy as a temporary fix
• For large cracks: the glass pane should be replaced

Warning: Cracked glass can break suddenly and is a safety hazard.

10. Hard-to-Lock Windows

What’s the Problem?

The window won’t lock or latch easily.

Why It Happens:

• Misaligned window sash
• Worn-out locks
• Warped frame

How to Fix It:

• Check alignment and gently push/pull the sash into place
• Replace old locks
• If the frame is warped, replacement may be needed

Reminder: Locks help with both security and sealing. Don’t ignore this issue.

Quick Reference Table

Problem	Cause	Fix
Drafty Windows	Gaps, worn stripping	Caulk, weatherstrip
Foggy Glass	Broken seal	Replace glass unit
Stuck Windows	Dirt, warped frame, hardware	Clean, lubricate, replace parts
Inside Condensation	Humidity	Dehumidifier, ventilation
Rotten Frames	Water damage	Epoxy fill or full replacement
Won’t Stay Open	Broken springs or cords	Replace hardware
Water Leaks	Poor sealing, damaged flashing	Caulk, check flashing
Outside Noise	Single-pane glass	Upgrade to double-pane
Cracked Glass	Impact or stress	Replace glass
Hard-to-Lock	Misalignment or warped frame	Adjust or replace lock/hardware

Final Thoughts

Common window problems can be annoying, but they are also signs your home might be losing comfort, energy, or even safety. Many fixes are simple and cost-effective. Others may need professional help.

If you catch issues early, you can save money, protect your home, and keep your family safe.

Talk to a Local Window Expert

Need Help with Your Windows? Let Milwaukee’s Experts Help.

At Tiltin Windows, Doors and More, we’ve helped Milwaukee-area homeowners for over 25 years with quality window, door, and siding installation.

Whether your windows are drafty, stuck, foggy, or just plain old—we can help. Our friendly team will inspect your home, recommend the best solution, and give you a free consultation.

Contact Tiltin Windows, Doors and More today to schedule your free in-home visit.

Common window problems