What does a stray baseball, a rotting frame, and a broken seal have in common?
Each scenario forces you to make a decision about your windows: repair or replace. There are several factors to contemplate when the time comes to answer this question.
Windows are a key aspect of curb appeal, home décor, and most importantly, home efficiency; time, hassle, and cost are also factors. In the midst of all of these considerations, there are a few simple questions you should ask yourself before you reach for the toolbox or the window catalogs:
Do your windows have ongoing problems?
An occasional window repair makes sense from a time and cost perspective. Frequent window work, such as continuously removing condensation between panes, painting wood frames, or fixing drafty windows is another story. If you regularly find yourself opening your wallet simply to open your windows, it might be time to consider replacing them.
How do they affect day-to-day comfort?
For homes with single-pane windows, winters can be especially frigid, and summers frequently unbearable. Double-pane vinyl windows are budget friendly and energy efficient, as they help block the heat in summer and contain it in winter. Plus, they’re more resistant to condensation. Whether you’re shivering due to icy drafts and cold-to-the-touch glass, or melting in the beaming rays and stagnant heat, vinyl windows are an attractive option to make your home more comfortable and efficient year-round.
How feasible is window repair?
If you have the time, patience, and experience, your windows might be repairable. Minor (and quickly attended) rot can be patched with epoxy and small drafts can sometimes be eliminated with fresh caulk and new weather stripping. If you live in a historic home, with original or era-specific glass or window frames, repair is probably the best option, as replacing them can affect the home’s overall appeal and resale value.
However, there are some instances, when replacement is simply the better option:
- Repair would result in exposure to lead-based paint
- Pervasive rot
- Fog between glass panes
- Window hardware is no longer manufactured
Preserving your windows
Ultimately, the best way to fix problem windows is to prevent issues before they start. Each year before the winter season, check your windows for seal breaks, rot (if wood framed), condensation, drafts, and broken hardware. Preserving your windows might be as simple as purchasing a tube of caulking or weather stripping. You may also find that professional repair or replacement is necessary. In any case, complete the work before the issue results in heat and energy loss.
All of our second-floor insulated windows got some sort of damage after the typhoon last week. Thanks for mentioning that we really do need replacement or repairs especially if moisture and rot are present. I might have to discuss with my family what could be our best option for getting them serviced.
Close to airport. “airport” windows where installed over 25 years ago. areas of decay/broken and missing or NO screens. thank you, looking for consultation
The other day, I noticed that the window in the attic has a rotting frame. Thanks for helping me identify when to replace or repair a window glass. Since you mentioned that minor damage, like my case, can be patched with epoxy. With that, I guess I shall then hire a repair service for professional assistance here in town.
I appreciate that you talked about preserving your windows and making sure that you complete any work before getting the glass replaced. My husband and I are looking for a way to replace our glass in our living room windows since our son broke it with a baseball. We will keep these tips in mind as we search for a professional that can fit our needs best.
Thank you for your tips on knowing when to repair or replace a window. I like how you said that if you have a historic home that it will be cheaper to repair a window. My aunt lives in a very old home. She will be interested to know that it is better for her have her windows repaired to keep the style of the home intact.
Thank you for this article If you live in a historic home,with original or era-specific glass or window frames, repair is probably the best option, as replacing them can affect the home’s overall appeal and resale value. because it’s really informative it’s really informative and very entertaining.Thanks a lot and have a great day
Thank you for stating that the best way to fix problem windows is to prevent issues before they start. My son recently just hit a baseball through my kitchen window, and I need to have it fixed. I will definitely keep all of your great tips and information in mind when trying to get my window repaired.
Have widow rot on front widow!