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When you have a large crack in your window and you can feel the air rushing through the breach, you’ll likely want to make a decision to repair or replace the glass quickly. If you’re like most of our New Jersey neighbors, you’ve probably already started comparing prices and asked your friends if you can get by with just installing a new piece of glass or you’ll be forced to replace the entire window unit.
Deciding whether to repair or replace home windows depends on the age and condition of your existing windows, what caused the damage and the window components affected. Below you’ll find some tips on deciding if a quick-fix or an upgrade is most appropriate.
Holes and Cracks in Window Glass
If a rogue baseball or falling tree limb crashed through your window, shattering the glass, but leaving the frame and interior casing structurally sound, you may be able to have your window glass replaced. If it’s a single-paned window, the glass repair is relatively simple and inexpensive, but you’ll still be left with an inefficient window that won’t keep your energy bills as low as they could be. Now might be the time to consider upgrading to more efficient insulated glass windows.
In the same broken glass situation described above happens to your insulated glass window, the repair might be a little more complicated because you’ll have to replace the entire insulated glass panel, even if just one of the two panes of glass is broken. You’ll likely have to call in a window repair specialist to measure the window and order a replacement from the original manufacturer. If your window is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer. They may send out an entire replacement sash (rather than just the glass) for your window.
It is important to realize that double-pane windows will not perform as designed if the exterior glass is compromised – even when interior glass is unscathed. You’ll lose insulating properties and structural benefits that help you keep your home heated and cooled efficiently if you don’t address the external damage.
Your homeowner’s insurance policy may dictate what path you take to correct the problem based on the length and width of the damage, how old your window units are and whether another party is financially responsible – such as a contractor working in or around your home or the person who threw that fast ball.
If you aren’t sure if your window pane needs a quick fix or is ready for the recycle center, our Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey window consults are schedule a no-obligation home visit to discuss your options and make recommendations.
Correcting Window Condensation Issues
Extreme variances between the interior and exterior temperature contributes to condensation build-up. Just like your glass filled with iced tea “sweats” on a sweltering, humid summer day, condensation builds up on the coldest glass surface of uninsulated windows.
Indoor humidity levels also affect condensation development – when the humidity level is high inside your home and outdoor temperatures fall, you may notice condensation on interior glass surfaces. You can use air conditioning systems and dehumidifiers to control your interior climate, but if your inner seals are failing, that isn’t the a permanent solution.
The truth is, no window will last forever and some unscrupulous builders use cheap materials that wear out quicker than high-quality building supplies. If your windows are more than 10 years old or you suspect your home was built with sub-par materials, investing in replacement windows designed to protect your home against the environment (humidity and temperature variances) offers myriad benefits.
New technology and materials allow us to build replacement windows with superior protection against moisture infiltration. The result saves you money on energy bills and protects your home’s value.
Window Framing and Sash Troubles
Let’s face it, you shouldn’t have to break a sweat opening your windows. Summer is winding down here in New Jersey and soon we’ll be able to open our windows to enjoy a refreshing breeze, especially as night temperature fall. If your windows are sticking, dragging and otherwise fighting you every time you want to let the fresh air in, it’s probably time to consider replacing them.
Many factors can affect your frames and sash performance, such as poor design, rotting wood, moisture infiltration and termites. You may notice air leaks caused by failing weather stripping or peeling sealants. Many aluminum and vinyl frames sag after a few years, causing gaps between your home’s exterior and your window units.
With basic carpentry skills and the proper tools, you may be able to replace aging weather stripping. You might even be able to replace damaged roller mechanisms – if you can find the parts for your existing windows – to improve sash function. But, these are temporary fixes that won’t save you as much money as investing in new high-performance, Energy Star-rated window systems with our Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey Fibrex frames that protect against damage caused by weather and other environmental influences.
When one window fails, unless that failure was caused by an isolated event, others installed about the same time will most likely develop the same issues. We invite you to give us a call at (866) 609-5033 if you questions about repair or replacement windows products. You can also fill in the box on this page to request more information or schedule a free in-home consultation.
Check out this post for more information on what to do if your windows are leaking.