Damaged windows are a hassle for any home. Not only are they unattractive, but they can be unsafe – sticking sashes and rusted hinges could prevent the window from opening in an emergency. Rotting frames can weaken over time and collapse if left unrepaired. You might consider the best action to take when you notice issues with any part of your windows. There are many benefits to window repair, which typically costs less than installing. And there are benefits to replacing your windows, too. This blog discusses what to know about window repair vs. replacement and which is the best solution for your old and damaged windows.
If you live in a home with single-pane windows, this could be your opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient option. For example, if there were an issue with a window, like a frame has rotted through, homeowners would upgrade the frame to fiberglass, vinyl, or metal rather than repair the damaged wood. There is also the option to choose a replacement to prevent having to replace it later. Continue reading to learn what common window damage should be repaired, and when replacement is your best option.
1. Chipped or Peeling Paint
Repair chipped or peeling paint with a fresh coat to elevate the appearance of your home. A qualified window company can efficiently swap your old paint for new and revive the appearance.
2. Water Damage
Water damage can seep into your home through cracks and chips in the glass or if it saturates the frame. You can call your local repairman to fix the damage if the panes are intact.
3. Rotted Frames
A common effect of water damage is rotted frames. Rotting wood frames is generally caused by heavy rain and humidity. The older your home is, the more likely your frames will rot. If you can see signs of rot or the frame is soft to the touch, it’s time to call one of our window repair experts.
4. Broken Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and mullions are pieces of wood that sit between glass panes. Some muntins and mullions are purely decorative, while others support the window panes. If your muntins or mullions are chipped, peeling, or dented, they can be repaired without replacing the entire window.
5. Worn Caulking
Caulking is used to seal gaps and goes between your frame and wall. When caulking begins to wear, the gaps let in cool air, humidity, insects, and water. If your window is drafty, the caulking may need to be replaced. Replacing caulking is a straightforward fix our qualified technicians can easily do.
6. Difficulty Opening and Closing Windows
Windows that can’t open or close properly need window repair services. Sticking windows are annoying and also a fire hazard. Older homes might have wood sashes or rusty hinges that impede a window’s ability to function correctly. Generally, inoperable windows are caused by one of the following issues that can be easily repaired:
The paint on a sash is too thick, causing it to stick
The spring in a spring-type sash is loose
The sash is misaligned with the track
The window frame is twisted, and the sash doesn’t work
The hinges and latches are rusty
7. Damaged Casing
The casing protects your window from damage and contributes to your home’s curb appeal. Weather and climate can damage the casing, causing it to become loose, cracked, rotted, or missing entirely. While the damaged casing is unattractive, it can be easily repaired.
8. Rotting Drip Cap
The drip cap is on the top of your frame and acts like a tiny awning preventing moisture from getting into your house. If the drip cap is made of wood, it can rot. A rotted drip cap is a relatively easy fix that won’t require installing new windows.
1. Cold Glass
If you live in an older home, your windows are likely single-pane. Your windows will always feel cold to the touch, particularly in the winter, since they are not insulated. Most homes built after the 1950s have double or even triple-pane windows that should not be cold to the touch. If you touch your windows during the winter and notice they’re cold, there is an issue with the insulation. Unfortunately, there is no easy window repair solution for this issue.
2. Drafty Windows
Certain draft issues are not quite as easy to fix but are important to address. Not only do drafty windows impact your energy bill by making your HVAC system work harder to heat or cool your home, but cold or humid air indoors can also be very uncomfortable. The following issues can cause drafts that mean your windows need to be replaced:
- Cracks in the glass
- Torn screens
- Incorrectly fitted windows
3. Foggy Windows
A dichotomy between indoor and outdoor temperatures or humidity inside causes fog outside your window pane. Fog trapped between two panes of glass is not a good sign. This fog means water condenses within the window’s insulation glass unit or IGU. IGUs are a space between two glass panes filled with a noble gas such as argon or krypton. It insulates the window and enables double and triple-pane windows to be energy efficient. Since these windows are sealed, the only way to fix a foggy window is to replace the sealed double-pane glass in the window.
4. High Energy Bill
Have you noticed your energy bill is higher than it used to be? The cause could be your windows. Drafty windows affect your energy bill because the cold or warm air from outside impacts your indoor temperatures. Your HVAC system will have to work harder to combat these varying temperatures. Energy-efficient windows help you save money by lowering your energy bills.
5. Excessive Damage
If damage to your windows is significant, it might be more cost-effective to replace them entirely. When one of our experienced technicians visits your home to look at your specific problem, we’ll advise you on the best course of action.
Do you need to hire window repair services? Our Sliding Door Repair Company experts will be more than happy to help you. We’ll efficiently complete any necessary repairs or let you know if you should consider replacing your windows. We’ll be completely transparent throughout the process by letting you know what repair work is being done and offering upfront pricing. To have one of our techs look at your windows today, call us at (949) 259-5897 or visit our website!
