Common Window Damage Signs and When to Get Repairs

Windows are a significant feature of any home. They allow fresh air, sunlight, and a glimpse of the outside. But windows do deteriorate over time. Broken windows not only appear ugly but can also lead to issues such as high bills, water leaks, and safety hazards. It is important to know the common signs of window damage so that window and screen repair can be done on time. This blog will explain the different signs of window damage and when to get repairs.

Signs of Window Damage

Windows can show different types of damage. Some damage is easy to see, while others may not be noticed until bigger problems appear. Here are some common signs that you should be aware of before you are in search of  window repair near me:

1. Cracks or Chips in the Glass

• Little cracks or chips in glass windows might not be noticeable, yet they can get larger in the future.
• Cracks are weakening the glass and it is liable to shatter.
• Broken glass is a danger and can be hurtful.

Cracks or chips should be taken care of immediately if one observes them.

2. Difficulty in Opening or Closing

• Windows should open and close without any considerable effort.
• If a window will not budge, maybe it is because of rust, dirt accumulation, or a damaged frame.
• Stuck windows are dangerous during fire emergencies because they might not open during times of need.

If your windows are not opening and closing smoothly, then it is time to have them checked and fixed.

3. Drafts or Air Leaks

• If you sense cold air passing through closed windows, the window may either have a gap or a seal breach.
• Drafty windows are more difficult to heat during winter and cool during summer.
• This can cost you as your heating and cooling devices will work harder.

Fixing drafts and sealing them can make your home cozier and energy-efficient.

4. Condensation Between Glass Panes

• If there is moisture or fog between double-glass panes, the seal is broken.
• Broken seals cause water to enter, lowering the insulation capacity of the window.
• It can result in overheating and overcooling of the rooms.

If you see condensation between glass panes, then the window will have to be replaced or repaired.

5. Water Leaks and Stains

• Water should not trickle through closed windows.
• If you observe water spots at the window sash, it could be the case that the window seal bursts.
• Water spillage can bring about the formation of mold that is unhealthy.

Water leaks are stopped in the bud to save on costly repairs in the future.

6. Warped Or Rotting Frames

• Wood window frames tend to soak up water and warp or rot.
• Sagged frames will make it hard to close the windows.
• Rotten wood can spread and infect the whole window frame.

Soft, cracked, or warping window frames need to be replaced or repaired.

7. Outside Noise Excess

• Windows are made to cut down on outside noise.
• If there is more noise than normal, the window insulation is probably weak.
• Thin glass or broken seals are probable causes of excess noise.

If noises from outside are bothering you at night, your windows might require repair or replacement.

8. Rising Energy Bills

• Windows insulate your home during winter and summer.
• When your energy bills escalate unnecessarily, your windows may not be closing properly.
• Broken or old windows might give a passage to draughts, which may force heaters and air conditioners to operate twice their capacity.

Window repair or replacement conserves energy costs.

9. Pests or Insects Finding Their Way In

• Tiny window holes let insects and pests into your house.
• Damaged screens or broken seals provide easy entry for bugs.
• It’s a hygiene issue, particularly in the kitchen and bedroom.

Sealing them keeps your house from becoming pest-infested.

10. Worn-out furniture or Flooring

• Windows shield your house from UV rays that damage it.
• If you see furniture, curtains, or floors changing color, your windows might not be preventing UV rays from penetrating.
• Your old windows might lack UV protection.

Replacing windows with UV-resistant windows can save your home interiors.

When to Get Window Repairs

It is imperative to know how and when you should replace or repair windows. Small problems might be repaired, but extensive damage could require new windows. These are some cases when you must obtain window repairs:

1. Small Cracks and Gaps

• Small cracks in the glass or small openings inside the frame can be repaired without having to replace the window.
• Sealing or professional glass repair can take care of the problem.

2. Stuck or Stiff Windows

• If windows won’t open and close, the hinges, tracks, or locks can be repaired to solve the problem.
• Window components can be lubricated or adjusted.

3. Little Drafts and Air Leaks

• Weatherstripping or sealant can correct little air leaks and enhance insulation.
• If the issue is large, a professional needs to replace the seal.

4. Water Leaks around Windows

• Little water leaks can be solved by sealing gaps or fixing the frame.
• If the leak is widespread, a new window might be in order.

5. Rotten or Warped Frames

• In case a short portion of the frame is rotten or warped, it is perhaps possible to mend it.
• When the frame is seriously rotten, replacement of the window is optimal.

6. Foggy or Moisture-Filled Windows

• When condensation has been locked in between panes of glass, the seal is broken.
• Repairing the seal or changing the glass will repair the problem.

7. Noise Problem Reduction

• If the windows let in a lot of noise, further insulation or sealing up joints will be beneficial.
• If the situation entails serious problems of noise, installing new windows with sound-absorbing glass is a more prudent measure to undertake.

When to Replace Windows Rather Than Repairing

There are circumstances when window and screen repair is not sufficient, and replacement is preferable. 

So if you are debating when to repair vs. replace damaged windows, then here are some of the circumstances you should be aware of::

• Windows are older than 15-20 years – Older windows could be less energy-efficient and unsafe.
• Several cracks, leaks, or rotten frames – If there are several windows that are faulty, it is more economical to replace them in the long term.
• Very high bills for energy – New energy-efficient windows can save electricity bills.
• Severe water damage or mold – If water damage has gone all the way through, windows need to be replaced.

Conclusion

Windows form part of any house but get damaged with the passage of time. Leaks, drafts, water penetration, and hard use are some symptoms showing that a window should be repaired. Fixing small issues ahead of time can prevent greater ones and be cost-saving. But if the damage is severe, replacing the windows is preferable. There is no fixed best time of year for window repairs; it depends on the signs of damage. Seeking expert help is the best way to keep your windows in optimal condition.