Window Repair vs Replacement
If your windows are cracked, foggy, or difficult to open, you may be wondering whether you can fix them yourself or if you need professional help. Some issues are manageable at first but can become much larger if they are not addressed right away. This is your guide to which window problems can be repaired and which require replacement.
You Can Repair Your Windows If:
The Glass is Cracked or Broken
Cracked or broken glass is an easy problem to diagnose, and relatively simple to fix. It should be done so in a timely manner, however, because it poses a safety hazard. Window damage also exposes your home to the elements, which can result in more expensive electricity bills each month.
For single-pane windows, this can be repaired by simply swapping out the damaged pane with a new one. For double-paned windows, it is an option to just replace the sash or the part that holds the panes of glass together. This process is a bit more difficult, though.
Air is Leaking
If your window is drafty, this could be a sign that the caulking is peeling off. Caulking is a flexible material used to seal openings in your house, especially window seals. Air leakage can lead to poor room insulation and increased energy bills.
Along with letting air in, leaky windows also have the potential to invite insects and water inside your home. Luckily, replacing the window caulk is a relatively easy fix and inexpensive, too.
They Are Difficult to Open
If a window gets stuck easily when it is opened, this is usually a sign that it needs to be repaired. A sticking window can be a fire hazard. Sometimes, a simple cleaning of the track is all it takes to get it functioning properly again.
Another possibility is that a component of the window has been bonded by paint. This can be fixed by a professional. Sometimes as windows age, their sashes and frames expand and contract, making them stick in a stationary position. In this situation, replacement is the best option.
It is Time to Replace if:
Condensation is Building Up
Fog on the outside of your windows is natural and not a cause for concern. However, fog between the window panes is caused by condensation build-up. This is often due to a damaged or broken seal. Certain faulty seals can be repaired, but for older windows, it is a sign that you need an upgrade.
The Frame is Rotting
Window frames can begin to rot on the frames, sashes, and dividers. It is usually caused by exposure to water or humidity, such as being repeatedly sprayed with a sprinkler. A window that was primed or painted incorrectly also has the potential to cause rotting.
While you can repair the wood if you catch the problem very early on, the damages are often deeper than meets the eye. If the frames are thoroughly rotten, it is time for new windows.
Window Replacement With The Window Depot
If it is time to replace your windows, The Window Depot has a large stock of vinyl and aluminum styles for you to choose from. Our options are affordable, as well as low energy. The Window Depot is your one-stop-shop for all of your window and door needs.