Should You Repair or Replace Your Windows?

Old home windows can be tricky. Your initial reaction may be to take the cheapest route possible and try to make repairs before completely replacing them. However, not everyone is a home improvement guru, so the price of paying for brand-new windows isn’t that far off the cost of hiring a handyman. This dilemma can quickly cause you to feel overwhelmed and wonder if you should repair or replace your windows. Before you start swinging a hammer or swiping your credit card, read through this guide to help point you in the right direction.

When to Repair Your Windows

Let’s start with situations that warrant window repairs. Some of the most common ones include:

Broken or Cracked Glass

Because people see the window as one complete unit, they think the entire thing has to be replaced when the glass breaks or cracks. However, as long as the frame is completely intact, you should only have to replace the glass and not the whole window.

Cosmetic Issues

If the surface of your window frames are chipped or faded, they can easily be refreshed with some sanding and repainting. Before you paint or stain them though, be sure to closely inspect them to be sure there isn’t any underlying damage like cracks or holes.

Hardware Problems

If your window issues are actually related to the hardware then there’s definitely no need for a full replacement. Try cleaning out any buildup of dirt or grease to see if that does the trick. If not, you may need to swap out your failing hardware with a new set.

When to Replace Your Windows

Some window issues will ultimately warrant a full replacement. This can include popular problems like:

Condensation Between the Glass Panes

We all know that drastic temperature differences can cause your windows to fog up, but what if this is occurring inside the glass? Condensation between window panes is a tell-tale sign of seal failure and needs to be resolved with replacements.

Warped Frames

Do the frames of your windows not look straight anymore? Has it become difficult to open and close them? It’s likely that your window frames have warped over time, which can eventually cause drafts and allow outside elements to get inside. Therefore, warped frames are a major indicator that it’s time for some upgrades.

 Outdated Technology

Windows are continuously being designed with newer and better technology, with a large emphasis on energy efficiency. If your home windows are a few decades old, you’re probably missing out on these new-and-improved features—and all of the savings they could be offering you!

If you do end up deciding that new windows are the right move for your home, you can turn to RBA of Greater Wisconsin for quality replacements and exceptional service. We proudly offer energy-efficient, long-lasting windows from Renewal by Andersen^® and have a dedicated and experienced team of professionals that know how to expertly install them. We work closely with our customers every step of the way to help them design beautiful new windows and explain how our products will help enhance their homes.

Our knowledgeable team would be happy to schedule an in-home consultation to determine if your windows need to be replaced. Contact us today to make it happen!