Having foggy, cracked, or broken windows often presents the dilemma of repairing or replacing them. As a homeowner, you probably understand how expensive a total window replacement can be, so you might want to enact repairs instead. However, repairs aren’t all that easy or cheap either and you may have been better off replacing the windows entirely.
So, if you’re stuck in this valley of indecision, this article has got you covered. It covers factors to consider when picking between window repair and window replacement.
When to Repair Your Window
Broken Glass
With windows, broken glass is a common occurrence that can happen at any time. In most cases, this is easily fixable, regardless of whether it’s a multi-paned or single-paned glass. When the glass of a multi-paned window is broken, it could be because of a damaged sash. So, you may only have to focus on replacing the sash. But for single-paned glass, you’ll have to replace the glass alone or call a glazier to help.
Stiff Sashes
If your sash is becoming increasingly difficult to raise, it could be because of broken cords on sash weights. For spring sashes, you may only need to replace the spring to get things moving again.
Minor Water Leaks
Sometimes, poorly draining gutters and drain pipes can cause a lot of damage to your window, as they force water toward it. Of course, the window seal is designed to hold back water, but it can’t withstand water coming at it with great force. So, you can try rerouting your drainage system to solve these water leaks.
Cost
Nine times out of ten, window repairs cost less than window replacement. So, if you don’t have enough spare cash for a window replacement, you can always opt for repairs instead.
When to Replace Your Window
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows are often caused by water condensation inside your double-paned or triple-paned insulated glass unit (IGU). Unlike before, IGUs in multi-paned windows are now sealed and permanent. So, the only solution now is to replace your window.
Structural Defects
Once the outer structure of your window begins to sag or fall, it’s time to get a new window. Sometimes, this can be due to certain areas around the window that are in poor shape. In this case, you’ll have to use a new construction window and rebuild parts of the wall for a more permanent fix.
Major Water Leakage
When you start to notice excessive water infiltration around your window, it’s time to get a new one. In most cases, this issue has more to do with your exterior as a whole rather than just the windows. So, you might also want to look into that.
Damages Mullions or Muntins
Mullions and muntins are wooden placeholders that separate panes of glass. However, if your window has faux muntins and mullions that are placed for effect only, you won’t be able to repair them. You’d have to replace the entire window.
Window Repair & Replacement With Atlantic Window Warehouse
When deciding whether to repair or replace your window, it may be tough to make the decision on your own. Atlantic Window Warehouse can give you the best recommendations, supplying both new and replacement windows to homeowners in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Do you need new windows? Contact our team for the best options available!