Why You Should Repair not replace your windows?
Getting your windows replaced as a homeowner can be one of your last things on your to-do lists. Everyone knows that nothing lasts forever, but no one tells you how long your windows will last. Especially with so many windows in your home problems could occur anytime and you might not even realize it!
One of the first things to look at when deciding to replace your windows is the severity of them. If they are starting to look foggy, cracked, broken, or feel a draft coming from them, then you know to start looking for a replacement. Although the cost may be out of your budget considering the new windows would be to your advantage. Leaving them broken or open can cause a lot more damage to other parts of your house.
Here are 5 signs you should Repair Not Replace Your Windows.
Signs to Replace Your Windows
- Major water leaks
- Cracked or damaged
- Foggy windows that form condensation between the glass
- Structural problems
- Poor interior faux muntins/mullions
Cracked or Broken Glass
This is one of the more dangerous reasons why you should get your windows replaced. The glass could cause water to seep in and allow mold to grow in the sills.
Wood Windows
If you have wood windows in your home and start to see the wood begin to rot and spread, think about a replacement. This is caused by water exposure seeping in from the rainfall or even your sprinkler system. This can lead to much worse conditions such as mold. Mold is usually found around the frames, the sashes on the inside, and the dividers. If there are minimum rotting spots this could be fixed with repatching and some paint. Overall the cost to repair pieces of the wood would cost more altogether.
Damaged Panes
One of the most noticeable things is broken panes on a window. From flying baseballs to small cracks and holes or even harsh hurricanes can cause damaged windows. Scratches can compromise the glass on the window but also be repaired by replacing the broken glass. Try to avoid using abrasive cleaners on your windowpane. If you wish to keep your vintage frame, an installation of new glass is recommended, but if it’s the cheap vinyl frames with cracks, then it would be best to replace your entire window.
Foggy Windows
If you see your windows start to get foggy then you should look into getting a replacement. This is caused by water condensing inside of your window’s double-pane or triple-pane insulated glass unit. Repairing a foggy glass can be tricky. Having to drill tiny holes in the window, allowing all the condensation to leave, and then patching them back up again. This could all be easier with just replacing the entire thing.
Drafty Windows
That one window that is used more than others may start to feel a little drafty as time goes on. Just like all things as you use them they tend to wear out. This is caused by little spaces between the frames, sashes, and dividers. Signs that you may need a replacement range from cracked or peeling sills, old weatherstripping, or loosened sashes and even wood rot. The cost to repair these issues would cost the same amount to replace the entire windows, so why keep your old ones?
Why REPAIR NOT REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS?
Every window has a different structure and material to it. The idea of repairing a broken window can be determined based on the severity of the issue. Repairs may be the cheaper option to go with for now but keep in mind, later in the future you will need to replace them.
The cost of your time is a key factor when asking yourself if you want to replace or repair your windows. Repairing and trying to maintain your old windows can come with more trouble and many hours of labor. Repairing comes with constantly fixing jammed windows and repainting them to improve their appearance while searching for rare or discontinued spare parts to fix. Even the cleanup afterward could be a major hassle.
If deciding to replace your windows, remember that properly maintained windows can last over 20 years and counting. This knocks out the natural disasters factor. You could find new windows to help modernize your home as well as choose to allow more light in and out of your home.
Lastly, talk to a window professional if you need any tips or have any questions about both repairing or fixing your windows. You might save tons of time and money when you realize your only solution was a full window replacement.
If you’d like to talk with an expert about whether you should repair not replace your windows, our team is available to help.
If you’d like to schedule your free estimate give us a call at (703) 348-3517 or click here to contact us.
If you would like to learn more about The Top 2 Ways To Fix Foggy Windows, click here.
It’s great that this article talked that the severity of the windows should be inspected to gather information. Last night, my best friend told me he was looking for a service that could repair the window glass in their store because of cracked glass, and asked if I had any idea what would be the best option for him. Thanks to this helpful article, I’ll be sure to tell him that it will be much better if he consults a trusted window glass repair service as they can provide a preventative measure for their windows.