Should You Repair or Replace Your Broken Window?

Maybe it was your kid’s softball. Perhaps Mother Nature saw fit to hurl a tree branch through your front windows. Or perhaps the glass just succumbed to age and extreme temperatures. Whatever the reason, you’ve got a broken window. Should you have it repaired, or should you take the opportunity to replace it?

There are two major factors in this decision: the cost, and whether the window can actually be repaired. Here’s an overview of window repair and replacement and what each option is likely to involve.

What kind of windows do you have?

If you have double- or triple-pane windows, you may not be able to repair your windows properly. That is, even if you replace the broken panes of glass, the argon gas insulation is gone. New panes can be caulked and weatherstripped, but the results simply won’t provide the same level of insulation that a new double- or triple-pane window would provide.

If you have older, single-pane windows, repair might be your best choice—especially if you can’t afford to get energy-efficient windows for the entire house. While a broken window provides an opportunity to upgrade, it’s not always in the budget.

What’s your budget?

Quality windows don’t come cheap—but when you’re living in Alaska’s harsh winter climate, that investment is often worth it. New windows can run $200 to $1,800—each—when installed, which means replacing them all can get downright expensive very quickly. If a new window is in your budget, that’s almost always going to be a better long-term option.

However, if you only need to deal with a minor crack or leak, repair can be a viable option. Again, you may lose the insulation on your double- and triple-pane windows, but it will hold you over until you can afford a full replacement.

Other considerations

There are some other signs that can indicate it’s time to replace your windows rather than repair them. Look around at the other windows in your home. Are they fogging up inside? That’s a sign that the window seals are broken, and the gas insulation has been compromised. Since this can encourage mold and mildew to develop in the walls, you might consider replacing your windows sooner rather than later. There’s no need to add a mold remediation bill to your household expenses.

If the frames are broken or rotted, or the window(s) won’t close, that’s another sign you should replace your windows. Not only do they allow moisture (and mildew or mold) into your home, but they also pose a security risk. Burglars have a much easier time breaking into homes with broken or damaged windows.

Finally, if you experience major water leaks every time it rains or the snow melts, your windows should be replaced immediately—whether they’re broken or not.

Although replacing your windows can be a significant investment, it’s a smart choice. Keep your home safe, mold-free and well insulated with new windows. Replacement Glass can help—call us today to learn more about our selection if you’re ready to repair or replace a broken window!

Categorised in: Window Repair, Window Replacement