Doors and Windows - Windows won't stay up

I recently bought a older house with windows that are held open by what I believe is called a sash string. It is a metal wire running up the inside of the windows, and is attached to a pulley, and or weights running behind the woodwork to hold the window open. Several of this wires are broken and now the only way to hold the window open is with a stick. I can not afford to buy new windows, so is there any easy way to fix this. I heard someone mention a product once that was made of spring steel and could be mounted on the inside of the window and would hold it open. Anyone know of this product, another product, or a easy fix? I really don't want to risk damaging the woodwork by ripping it off to fix the existing system.

Thanks

Roscoe, what you are describing sounds like single pane, wood framed, single or double hung windows. You say you can't afford to replace them. My question is: 'how can you afford NOT to replace them?' New thermopane, vinyl or clad frame windows, with the Energy Star rating, will lower your utility bill by 20% to 30%, maybe more. And check with your local utility -- they may have a rebate program, or a low or zero interest loan program, in place that will make the cost of new windows even more attractive.

The springs you are talking about, I don't think will work in the windows you have. There isn't enough space between the frame and the sash for them to be installed.

Yes, there are metal clips which will solve your problem. Home Depot carries them in the hardware section. They are about 3/4" wide and about 3" tall. They look like the letter D with the top open. They put pressure on the side of the sash, helping it to stay up. Lefty is correct, replacment windows will have a huge payoff on your heating bills. I understand that they are costly when you start adding up windows, but maybe one every other month will eventually get you there. good luck