Window Replacement or Repair: The Difference You Need to Know
The difference between replacing and repairing your windows depends on their current condition. Many people try to avoid a complete replacement because they are concerned about the cost.
However, the cost of replacing a window will not only save you money in the long run but prevent further damage to the home.
Here are the conditions you need to know about when determining if your windows need to be replaced or repaired.
CONDITION OF WOOD
The condition of the wood inside the window frame tells you if you need a replacement. Rotting wood, for example, is a significant sign that a window needs to be replaced.
It is vital to catch rotting wood as early as possible, as it results from moisture or some form of water leakage. Plus, the sooner you notice an issue of rotting wood, the lower the price will be for the repair.
Discovering rotting wood in the beginning stages will allow for patching and repainting. However, if the window isn’t replaced, you will have to pay the price for the window repair and replace the wood, which can be more expensive than the cost of a new window and its installation.
Depending on the type of water damage you are experiencing, it might be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. If you are unsure about this, contact your insurance provider to verify if you are covered.
You can also contact us here at One Man & A Tool Box with questions regarding this, and one of our specialists will get you the support you need.
DO YOU FEEL A DRAFT?
Drafty windows are usually a sign that your windows need to be replaced. Small crevices between the frames of the windows will cause air to seep into the home.
In the winter, the price of heating your home will increase. In the summer, it will cost more to cool your home if your windows are drafty.
If the windows just have some rotting caulking, it might be time to apply new caulking. Caulking a window is a simple repair.
However, other issues such as loose sashes or damaged weather stripping might indicate that it’s time to repair the windows simply because the repair price could cost as much as replacing the window.
Why not replace the window and avoid these issues in the near future?
STUCK WINDOWS
Windows that aren’t opened regularly tend to stick and refuse to open. This issue happens as a result of the expansion of the sashes as well as the frames. It is a result of the toll of changes in seasons throughout the year.
In this case, the windows need to be replaced.
If there is paint in between the frames and sashes of the windows causing the windows to stick together, grime could be the culprit. If this is happening, you can fix the problem by smoothing out the paint layers with a tool made to cut through paint layers.
Note: If the paint and windows were placed in the home before the late 1970s, there is a chance that the paint could contain lead. If this is the case, it is crucial to hire a professional who knows how to take the necessary safety precautions in handling it.
CRACKS OR HOLES
Cracks and holes in windows might require a replacement if the frame of the window is damaged. Replacing the part of the window that’s broken or shattered will also prevent further damage to the window if done immediately.
However, it’s best practice to replace the entire window to prevent further issues.
If you have problems with your windows and are not sure if you should replace or repair them, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, and we will help you figure out what’s best for your home. We are your five-star restoration and remodeling experts, ready to give you lasting results in your home repair.