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 allow for the easier control of an outside breeze. This is done by lowering the top section or raising the lower section. Some of the older types of these windows might have problems with the tracks that allow the sliding. These can be repaired or replaced with modern versions. Many of the modern windows have features like double paned glass or tilting for easier cleaning.
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.
When trying to close a section it may become stuck. Most likely there is some debris in the track preventing normal operation. Try to remove the debris. If you force the section it could cause permanent damage to the track or the sash.
House settling can cause warping in the frames. If this has happened then have a contractor take a look. These problems can be repaired. It may also be a good opportunity to replace the window and upgrade. Try not to make this repair on your own. If you want to keep the window then have a professional try to repair it.
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.
During the winter months it may be more difficult to open the window. You can use a slow and controlled amount of pressure to get the window to move. There may be some room to wiggle the sash windows into the position that you desire.
Rather than discard your aged double hung windows, call in a sash window restoration London company. A sash window company can refinish, repair and renovate aged windows so they are as good as new.