Are your windows leaking, cracking, or cloudy? If so, the chances are you need to have them repaired.
The next question you must ask yourself is how challenging fixing those windows will be.
Say the degree of difficulty is beyond your grasp as a DIYer. The wisest approach would be hiring a pro. You have nothing to gain by wasting time on a task you aren’t paid for. You’ll likely worsen things, too, costing you more money and leading to further headaches.
However, many leaking, cracked, or cloudy windows present a surmountable enough repair challenge for many DIYers to handle on their own.
We’ll examine the factors determining whether you should DIY your window repair or pay a pro to take it off your hands.
How Do You Know Your Windows Need Repair?
Below is a list of common indicators that your window needs a repair:
● Cloudy or fogged glass.
● Broken or cracked glass.
● You struggle to open and close your windows.
● Air leaks or drafts.
● Condensation or water leaks.
● Damaged or warped frames.
● Balance or sash issues.
● Damaged or worn seals.
Address these warning signs ASAP to prevent the damage from worsening.
What Are The Types Of Window Repairs?
This section delves into the types of window repairs you’ll face when you must decide between hiring a pro and DIY:
Broken Or Cracked Glass
Weather conditions, structural issues, accidental impact, etc., could all contribute to your window glass breaking or cracking.
Handy DIYers can usually fix small cracks quickly. You’ll only need a glass repair kit with curing strips, a razor blade, and resin.
Sometimes, the crack might be too substantial, or the glass might be entirely broken. We suggest calling a professional in these scenarios.
Clouded Or Fogged Glass
A buildup of condensation or moisture between double-pane window panes can cause the glass to fog or cloud up. Typically, this issue results from aging or a broken seal.
This issue can be remedied in newer windows by calling the manufacturer to fix it based on the warranty. Even seasoned DIYers should accept this help since you won’t have to pay or lift a finger (other than the required phone call or email).
Conversely, old or out-of-warranty windows that fog or cloud might necessitate you calling a professional to replace the entire window or just the glass.
Damaged Or Broken Frame
Air leaks, drafts, or struggles with opening or closing your window are problems that can stem from a broken or damaged frame.
Skilled DIY can apply epoxy putty or wood filler to fix minor damage quickly. More severe damage will necessitate the sure hands of a window repair pro for a frame or entire window replacement.
Damaged Or Worn Seals
The seals on your windows protect your home from air and moisture entering and exiting it. Unfortunately, time isn’t kind to seals and can wear them out or damage them, leading to energy loss, drafts, and condensation.
Minor damage can be remedied with a sealant. You can also weatherstrip to fix the issue. More significant damage will necessitate a professional’s touch.
Balance Or Sash Issues
Do you know why your window stays in place and opens and closes seamlessly? It’s due to components called sashes and balances.
Damaged or worn-out sashes and balances cause issues with window operations, potentially leading to various dangers.
Minor sash or balance damage can be fixed via DIY methods with replacement parts. Once the damage reaches a more critical point or your window is too aged, reach out to a pro to handle the job on your behalf.
Avoid The Need For Window Repairs By Following These Maintenance Tips
The above suggestions will aid in immediate repairs, but these Band-Aid solutions might not get to the root of the issue.
Long-term, the best solution is to maintain your windows to reduce the need for repairs or replacements, saving you anguish and money.
Here are some helpful maintenance strategies:
● Remove dust, dirt, and grim by cleaning your windows frequently to prevent stains, scratches, and wear.
● Use a mild detergent, a squeegee, a soft cloth, and other cleaning solutions and tools to prevent damage to the frame or glass.
● Perform periodically scheduled inspections on your windows to catch any damage signs (e.g., leaks, cracks, or dress). You can detect these issues while they’re minor before they exacerbate into something far more expensive.
● Ensure smooth window operation and prevent wear and tear by lubricating the locks, hinges, and other moving parts.
● Install curtains, films, blinds, or other window treatments to shield your windows from heat, UV rays, and sunlight because these can cause windows to warp, fade, or crack.
● Lock your windows correctly and install security devices to keep your windows secure. Security devices include alarms, grilles, and sensors to scare away intruders and burglars.
Doing It Yourself Versus Hiring A Pro
DIY and professional repair are your two options when you need to shore up issues with your windows.
Of course, the number one benefit of DIY is the amount of money you can save.
DIYing is a cost-effective solution dollar-wise–provided you can complete the repair. However, you should also consider the value of your time and how skilled and experienced you are as a DIYer.
Also, hiring a professional guarantees a better job done typically.
The above statement isn’t a hard-fast fact, as some DIYers are exceptionally skilled. Still, generally speaking, a professional fixes windows every day and will be more efficient and provide superior quality. Plus, there will likely be a warranty involved.
Minor repairs can be handled by people with basic handy skills, including seal replacements, fixing cracks, or sash adjustments.
Any task with more complexity (e.g., replacing the frame or the glass) should be left to pros, specialists, and technicians to halt further damage and perform the work safely.
Another consideration is if your windows are aged out and too old or damaged to repair. In these cases, you should replace the window instead of wasting money on continual fixes.
Reach out to Canopy if you have any questions about repairing the windows in your home. We would be more than happy to help you through your window repair!
