Struggling with if it’s better to repair or replace your windows? Depending on the problems you’re facing with your windows, you may find that there is an easy fix or that the only solution is window replacement. Depending on the extent of the damage and the age of your windows, a replacement may be a more cost-effective solution.
Read on for information to help you decide whether to repair or replace your windows.
When to Choose Window Repair over Replacement
There are some instances when taking on a DIY repair makes sense and others in which window replacement is the best option.
When a sash is tough to operate
When it’s tough to open your window, that can be dangerous in an emergency, making it hard to escape through a window if needed. It’s vital that your windows open and close easily.
If your single or double-hung vinyl windows are hard to open, there may be dirt or grime in their tracks. You can clean them using a vacuum hose attachment. Clean tracks with an all-purpose cleaner, particularly the two vertical sides. Apply a little silicone-based lubricant to the window tracks, and slide your window up and down to help the lubricant work into the tracks. You can prevent this from happening by regularly cleaning your windows.
If your windows don’t work well after cleaning the tracks, their springs may be the issue. Replacing your window springs requires specialized tools and experience, so hire someone to fix those windows or opt to replace them.
When a lock or crank doesn’t work properly
This can be a reasonably manageable repair if you find the proper lock or crank and follow the directions tediously. You can replace the lock without replacing the whole window unit.
The bottom line on window repairs
In many cases, repairs just delay much-needed replacements by bandaging the problem. They may cause you to pay now and pay later when you inevitably have to replace the window. Repairing a window with more damage or an older one can be a waste of time and money. The window may be easily broken in the future, leading to replacement down the road anyway.
If you have moisture intrusion and rotting window frames, and you don’t address the problem promptly, it can spread to other parts of your home, causing structural damage and opening the door to pest infestation. It’s often wise to take care of the problem once and for all with window replacement.
Repairing vs. Replacing Your Windows
When repairing windows, consider the time you’ll need to invest.
- Since most people don’t repair windows frequently, finding and implementing the right solution to your window’s problems can take a lot of time.
- Fixing jammed or damaged windows and repainting them to match their appearance to other windows in your home can be a real hassle. Searching for rare or discontinued spare parts and cleaning all the parts of an outdated window can be time-consuming.
- If it will take a great deal of time to repair your windows, and when you consider the value of your time, replacement may be a better option.
As windows age, they become less energy-efficient.
- If your window performance has drastically decreased, consider the extra energy usage you’re racking up and factor that into your decision to repair or replace them. When windows work correctly, they are energy-efficient and show up favorably on your utility bills. Old, worn-out windows don’t keep all the cold air outside in the winter or warm air outside in the summer—driving up energy use and wearing out your heating and air conditioning unit quicker.
- While sometimes it’s possible to repair damaged windows, upgrading to energy-efficient windows can result in energy savings.
- Replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR® certified windows can save a substantial amount of energy and money each year.
Why Window Replacement Works Best
- If your window is damaged and old, a replacement may be the best option.
- It may be the most cost-effective option to replace your windows rather than repair them.
- You’ll save a lot of hassle by replacing old, damaged windows.
- Realize that repairing existing windows doesn’t help their long-term performance issues, such as energy inefficiency.
- While window repairs can be done quickly and for less money in the short term, there are a variety of long-term benefits that make replacement worth it.
- New windows last longer physically.
- The comfort level of your home will improve significantly with new windows.
Successful Window Replacement by a Trusted Team of Professionals
Enduring window replacement begins with top materials and meticulous attention to detail in the replacement process. At Kelly Window & Door, we offer gorgeous windows from top manufacturers:
- Sunrise Windows – Get outstanding energy performance and lifetime warranties from these beautifully crafted Sunrise Windows with advanced technology. Choose from designer options and custom paint your windows’ exterior to enhance your home’s looks.
- Restorations Windows – Enjoy the beauty without compromising on these low-maintenance vinyl windows with up to 27% more viewing area. Get exquisite looks and exceptional performance from these durable Restorations Windows that are engineered to last.
Check out the windows and door replacements we did to enhance the looks, safety, and energy efficiency of a Cary, NC home.