Windows like doors are susceptible to age and to get damaged by the years as they are exposed to the weather sometimes too hot sometimes too cold, rarely the way we want it. As time goes by weather stripping, caulk, frames and hardware on windows can become damaged or broken. You can sometimes repair these problems and improve the efficiency of your windows, or you might have to replace the windows. Window repair is usually less costly than replacement, but do not give the same results in the long run. Sometimes even if replacement seems too expensive, over the years the savings in energy costs, and the added comfort in the house might make replacement a better value.
How to decide if you should replace or repair your windows
Take a few factors into consideration before you decide to repair your windows.
Style and fitness : Do your current windows fit the style of your house, or do you think that they do not meet what you would like the appearance of your house to be. Perhaps the windows do not provide enough light in the house, thus forcing you to use electricity during the day.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do the main areas in your home get enough daylight?
- Do you have or do you want windows that open on the living areas with a good view of the yard or the landscape?
- Do your windows match the style of the house?
- Do they have the look, sturdiness and ease of maintenance that you would expect?
Caulk and hardware has deteriorated over the years, leaving the windows less insulated, difficult to operate. These as well as screen damage are frequent problems with windows. In addition damaged hardware might provide an easy point of entry for would be burglars. Here it is only a matter of doing a thorough inspection and decide what needs to be done.
Structural problems can also interfere with the proper function of your windows. Humidity can often cause damage and that cannot always be remedied with a new window repair or replacement. It is important to address the humidity questions before proceeding with repairs. If structural problems are present you also need to consider if renovations will involve modifications to electrical and/or plumbing systems.
Heating and ventilation are the main concerns of homeowners as windows are the largest source of heat loss during the night or heat gain during the hot summer days. Therefore these factors must also be considered while thinking about whether to repair or change your windows.
Humidity can be detected by visual inspection and seeing signs of mold and mildew. Remember that this is a problem that will not be remedied by changing the windows.
Homeowners who take the time to study the possibilities and plan their project start on the right foot. A renovation project for your windows is a perfect occasion to make your house a healthier environment for you and for the environment as you will preserve energy resources, save money in the long run, enjoy your home more and increase the value of your home.
