Sometimes feels like you need two hands and a crowbar to get them open come April.
That’s too real—seen plenty of folks fighting their old sashes every spring. The shrink-wrap kits are a solid stopgap, especially in these drafty old houses. I’ve patched up more than a few windows that way for clients who just weren’t ready to commit to a full rebuild. You’re right about the tape at the corners; if it’s not sealed up tight, you end up with that annoying flap noise every time the wind kicks up.
Ever tried swapping out just the sash cords or pulleys instead of a whole rebuild? Sometimes a little TLC keeps those 1920s windows going for years. It can be fiddly work, but cheaper than a full tear-out and you keep all the original woodwork. Curious if you’ve had any luck with that route, or if it’s always felt like putting lipstick on a pig.