New Windows vs Repairs in Lincoln– Is Replacement the Cheaper Choice?

Are you moving into a new home or ready to tackle home improvement projects this spring? One of the most common maintenance and improvement tasks for homeowners is to assess the condition of the windows and their need for repair or replacement. But is window replacement cheaper, or should you consider repairing the windows? In most cases, a window repair job will be the more affordable option. Let’s take a deeper dive into new windows vs repairs in Lincoln to determine the best option for your home.

New Windows vs Repairs in Lincoln – Is Replacement the Cheaper Choice?

When to Hire a Window Repair or Replacement Service

Peeling or Chipped Paint

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh coat of paint to get your windows looking as good as new.

Fogging And Gas Leaks

When water condenses inside double-pane or triple-paned windows, it causes fogging. Modern homes feature permanently sealed IGU windows, requiring replacement.

While fogging is a sign of IGU failure, gas leaks are harder to detect. If the inner pane feels colder than others around the house, it’s a sign of a gas leak and loss of insulative properties. This issue requires replacement.

Damage to Muntins or Mullions

The mullions and muntins are the pieces of wood or material separating the panes of glass. They’re set between the window panes and damage to them requires replacement. You can’t repair this type of damage.

Structural Issues

If the exterior structure of the window fails, you’ll need to replace it. Look for damage to the sheathing, studs, insulation, and siding to determine the extent of the damage. If you feel you can get away with a repair, consult a window repair specialist before deciding. However, in most cases, you’ll have to opt for window replacement.

Water Leaks And Frame Rot

When the window casing fails, water leaks inside the frame. In this case, you’ll need to replace the windows. One of the signs of leaking windows is water stains around the frame on the interior.

Wood window frames require treatment to stay weatherproof. If left untreated, the wood will rot, requiring the replacement of the windows. The window is not in good condition if the frame feels soft to the touch, it’s a sign of rot.

Damaged Caulking

If you feel drafts coming through the edges of the window frame, the caulking may require replacement. In this case, you won’t need to replace the entire window. It’s a trip to the hardware store and a simple DIY task, you won’t even need to hire a contractor.

That being said, leaving the caulking unrepaired may result in the following:

• Onset of water damage.
• Poor insulation.
• An increase in energy costs to heat your home

Difficulty Closing & Opening Windows

If the windows stick when opening or closing, it could be a sign of structural damage to the home. This occurs as the walls move on the foundations or as a sign of loss of structural integrity in the window frame. Either way, you’ll need to replace the windows.

Broken Panes And Sash Issues

Look at replacing the sash if you have cracked or broken multi-pane windows. If the sashes are challenging to raise, it’s usually because of damaged cords on the sash weights. If you have spring-type sashes, the spring may be loose or broken, requiring repair. It’s an affordable job, but you might need a window professional to help you.

Drip Cap Damage

The exterior of the window features a drip cap acting as a shield. If it features wood construction and appears rotted, you can replace it with an aluminum cap. These caps are available from a local hardware store.

Damaged Casings

If the window frame has damaged casings, you can usually replace them with materials found at your local home center. Choose primed wood casings or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl frames as affordable wood alternatives.

Increased Energy Costs

If you notice an increase in your energy bills, it’s a sign of a loss in the insulative properties of your windows. Inspect the windows throughout your home for the signs of wear and tear mentioned above. In some cases, the increase in energy bills might be tied to the inflation in energy prices for heating your home.

However, it could also be a sign of a more serious issue. If replacing your windows, choosing energy-efficient windows will decrease your energy bill.

Consult a Professional About New Windows vs Repairs

If you have no experience with window repair or replacement or no DIY skills, call a window company near you for help. It’s better to spend a few dollars on an assessment than hundreds on a replacement or repair job. With many cost-effective window options, choosing windows can be difficult.

A window contractor will visit your property and provide a written quote for new windows vs repairs to your existing windows. When you have the quote, you can call around and email the new window estimate to other companies. This will help you find the most affordable option for the project.

Contact North Country Windows & Baths today to schedule a consultation and receive a window estimate in Lincoln, NE, Eastern Nebraska, and surrounding areas. 

North Country Windows & Baths in Lincoln, NE, and the Surrounding Areas

At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom-made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.

Whether you want a soaker tub surrounded by subway tile or a low threshold shower with granite-like walls, you can customize your BathWraps space and even add accessories like soap dishes, caddies, seating, grab bars, and more Contact us today.