Household Repairs Window stiff. Lubricate adjusting arm and make sure it is free of paint. If window has a rotary operator, squirt powdered graphite into joint at base of handle. Then open window and squirt more graphite into back of operator and on to sliding track.

Air leaks around edges of window. If windows are metal, install rubber stripping that is slotted to fit over the edges of the frame. A flange laps over the window edges and prevents air from entering. Flexible metal weatherstripping is better but should be installed by an expert. If windows are wood, tack one edge of metal stripping to the frame and bend up the other edge so that it presses against the edges of the sash. The tacked edge should face outward for out-swinging casements so that it won't interfere with the closing of the window.

Water leaks at top or sides of window frame. See window, double-hung.

Other problems. See door. Solutions are similar.

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December 3, 2008