So you’ve been thinking those windows look a little drab or
worn out? Often many will simply jump to getting new windows before truly
assessing their situations. Often you will find that most windows aren’t quite
ready to throw in the towel just yet. It’s understandable why many do, though.
New windows boast a much more appealing aesthetic and are often more effective
than older windows at retaining heat or keeping cold out, however; replacement
of all windows is immensely expensive and the ultimate energy savings are minor
compared to the savings you could see by doing some cheaper home projects
(sealing air gaps, reducing water heater temperature, or replacing light bulbs,
etc.) To not only optimize energy efficiency but also spruce up your windows for
the several more years they have in them, check below to see exactly how you
should approach the situation. Sometimes though, there is no option but to
replace, so the hard part comes in deciding which to choose. We put together
this explanation to help you sort out where your windows stand, and what
options you have when it goes to rectifying their issues.
Probably one of the biggest and trickiest problems people
have with their windows is rotting wood that allows free movement of air in and
out the house. The reason rotting wood is considered tricky is simply because
often the appearance is much worse than the actual damage, leading owners to
falsely believe a replacement is needed. Sometimes replacement will be your only
option, but make sure to take a close look below the top layer of the wood.
Minimal rotting can be fixed with a small application of epoxy. Any substantial
damage to the sill or framework is worth replacing, since the cost of repair
would only cost slightly less than a new window installation (on average
anywhere form $100 - $150 more). In this case, replacement would most likely be
the best choice for the long run.
Another issue that almost guarantees need of a replacement
is a broken pane. The cost of hiring someone to remove the window, install a
new pane, then put the window back in is virtually the same as replacing it
with a new window. The real only time to not replace a window with a broken
pane is when the window itself is vintage or unique and would cost hundreds
upon hundreds of dollars to replace. Since most of us don’t have this problem,
it is usually safe to say replace.
What about foggy windows? A window that has a permanent fog
in between panes has a broken seal. Basically this means that due to excessive
expanding and contracting from temperature changes, the seal along the window
has broken, allowing condensation to form between the panes causing a permanent
“fog” that will not go away. With “blown” windows, as they’re called, only a repair
is necessary. Installing a new sash is less costly than a replacement and
refreshes the life and look of a window.
In general, any windows reluctant to open or close, or that
have jammed parts are easily repaired with simple replacement of hardware. This
project is easy for any non-handyman to do, and only costs the small amount for
the hardware itself. The only time a handyman should be called for something as
small as this is if your windows were installed before the discontinuation of
lead paint treatments on windows (1978-ish). This is for your safety only; the
handyman will be trained on the proper routines for dealing with lead paint
treated windows.
Ultimately, it comes down to proper assessment when deciding
between repairing and replacing your windows. But with this guide, that will
prove no issue for you! We at Century Glass have made sure to include all the
information you need to make a confident decision and get your windows back
into tip-top shape!
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