Should I Repair or Replace My Windows?

With cooler temperatures on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to have windows you can count on to keep the outside chill where it belongs – outside! If your windows aren’t in the best shape, you may be wondering if they can be repaired or if you need to replace them altogether before winter comes. At Clinton Glass, we are experts in both window repair and replacement, so today we’re comparing the two options so you can make an educated decision.

Signs You Need to Replace

There are a few telltale signs that your windows are beyond saving and new ones are needed:

• Rotting Wood – When rot sets in along the wood that surrounds the glass, the whole window needs to be replaced. Typically, the rot is a result of water exposure or windows with poor paint jobs. As the paint wears off or cracks in certain spots, water seeps in and molds start to form. Look for rot alone the frames, the sashes, and the dividers.
• Broken Seals – The seals on your windows can crack or break over time as temperatures take their toll. Between double panes, seal ruptures are often the result of condensation, which occurs when fog forms along the glass. When the seal dries after the fog, its integrity becomes compromised.
• Stubborn or Drafty Windows – Simply put, you want to be able to open and close a window on your terms. If a window hasn’t been opened in several years or if you close a window and still feel air coming through, the window is not doing it’s job and often will be easier to replace than repair.

Signs You Could Repair

When it comes to repairing windows, you need to consider the condition of your windows as a whole. If your window frame is vintage and well–preserved, it can often be repaired.

• Broken Panes – It’s not hard to spot a broken window pane. Whether there’s a chip, crack, or gaping hole through the pane, this is the kind of problem that you need to rectify immediately. In some instances, you might not have an all-out crack or hole, but the pane could have scratches that compromise the integrity of the glass. However, if the window structure is in good shape, then installation of new glass panes would be the best option.
• Drafty Windows – As mentioned before, drafty windows definitely need professional attention. However, in some cases they can be repaired instead of replaced. If the caulking is cracked or peeled, it is easy to remedy that with a new application of caulk along the gaps.

Clinton Glass

Often, homeowners will choose to replace their malfunctioning windows because newer windows mean superior materials. However, with proper care, your windows should remain in good working order for up to 25 years. For window repair and replacement in New Haven, Connecticut, contact Clinton Glass today at (860) 664-3711 for a free quote.