Should I Get Window Repair or Replacement Windows?

Long ago homeowners had to do what they could to repair broken windows. But modern technologies and advancements make these products more resilient, and also more difficult to repair. Often getting replacement windows in Portland, OR is a more prudent decision. But how do you know if a window can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced? Here is a short guide that might help:

Window Problems you Can Repair

These are the most common conditions homeowners can solve with fairly minor window repairs:

Sticky Operation

Windows should open and close smoothly, with little effort. But this isn’t always the case. Over time dirt and debris build up on the track or hinges get gummed up. Luckily this can be an easy problem to repair with a vacuum, soft bristle brush, cloth, and a silicone lubricant spray.

Minor Aesthetic Defects

For the most part homeowners can correct minor aesthetic defects on fiberglass and wood frames with putty, wood filler, or paint. Vinyl and aluminum frames are not as forgiving. Homeowners can’t sand and refinish these window frames and ultimately have to deal with dents, scratches, and marring until they are ready for replacement windows.

Faulty Hardware

If a window only has sticky or broken hardware that can be a fairly simple problem to repair. That said, with older windows, it can become more and more difficult to find the matching hardware. Eventually manufacturers stop making replacement parts for older products and repairs will be more difficult.

Damaged Caulking or Weather Stripping

These types of seals eventually wear out on almost all window products. Fortunately, they are easy to fix with a quick run to the home improvement store. These products are fairly affordable and easy to install.

Torn Screens

Damaged and worn out screens can be a real eyesore. In some cases, homeowners can hire a professional to simply patch a hole. But even replacing the entire screen can be done at an affordable price.

Shattered Glass

Broken glass is one of the most common problems for windows. Cracks can be small or span the entire pane. Depending on the size and style of the window, a window repairman may be able to solve the problem by simply replacing the pane of glass. But these types of repairs can be expensive.

Window Problems that Require Replacement

Unfortunately, there are issues that homeowners cannot solve with repair, but require getting completely new windows. These include:

Condensation between the Panes

Most homeowners tend to ignore condensation between the panes, chalking it up as a minor inconvenience. What is really means is the seals for the panes have failed and the window is no longer efficient. Some window repairmen can place vents in the panes to get rid of condensation, but that does not restore the full effect to the window. It will still be an energy drain on the home.

Warping or Rotted Frames

The window frame provides the structure for the entire assembly. Warped or rotted frames make windows rub, stick, and render them unsafe. And no amount of silicone spray will resolve the issue. Only replacement windows.

A Loss of Insulation

If the windows in a home are more than 20 years old they are probably inefficient. Modern advancements in manufacturing make today’s windows more airtight and energy efficient. So if energy loss is a major concern in a home, new windows could be a major contribution to energy savings.

Water Infiltration

Moisture seeping into the frames and walls can cause major damage. And resolving window leaks with repairs can be near impossible. There are so many factors that could cause the leaks, often the best solution is to rip out the old window and start fresh.

If you are looking for replacement windows in Portland, OR call us at (503) 554-5500. Our professional and reliable team at EnergyGuard Windows and Doors can walk you through our products and help find the best solutions for your home. Stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132 to check out some of our products.