Windows can truly define the style of your home’s facade. Depending on how you take care of them over the years, they can last for decades. Some window designs will even add to the value of your home, so it’s crucial to ensure your windows are maintained and as functional as they should be. 

There are a few things you can look for by doing an overall inspection of your exterior. Here’s what to keep an eye out for when you’re assessing the condition of your windows, so you know whether they need repairs or replacing.

Inspection Tips for Your Windows

Make an assessment of how your windows have held up since being installed. There are a few things to check to make sure they’ll last into the years ahead. Homeowners should look for: 

Broken or Cracked Glass

Make sure all your window glass is intact, not chipped or damaged. Leaving cracks unattended will just get worse over time, and allows air and water to seep inside your home. 

Foggy Glass or Water Leakage

Do your window panes ever get foggy when temperatures drop? Or maybe they leak after a rain shower? You’ll want to address these issues before they become bigger problems and cause moisture damage. 

Warped, Rotted or Broken Window Frame

If your window frames look off-kilter, warped or damaged, this can let in air and moisture into your home — and might affect the functionality of your window over time. Wooden frames are also prone to rot, which should be cleaned and removed before a full window replacement is needed. 

Outside Noise Infiltration

Your windows should help protect your home and provide comfort: that includes noise reduction! Sometimes homes in highly populated regions might need additional soundproofing for their windows to keep outside sounds from coming in. 

Once you’ve reviewed the condition of your home’s windows, take your inspection a little further: Look at your energy bill to see if your windows are helping to protect and insulate your house as they should. 

“Energy efficient windows are an important consideration for both new and existing homes. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use,” according to Energy.gov.

When to Repair Your Windows 

Many homeowners don’t want to jump straight to replacing the windows in their home, and with the right maintenance, some windows will last for years. There are a few reasons to repair the windows you have instead of replacing them. 

• You can maintain the original style of the home. In many historic houses, the windows add character to the facade. 
• Rebuilding your window and making repairs often costs less than replacing them, and won’t take up as much of your schedule. 
• Replacing unique or historic windows can actually lower the value of the home in some cases. 
  

If there is superficial damage to the window sash or frame, or if you find any wood rot during your inspection, you can likely get away with just repairing the damage. If wood decay or other damage gets worse over time, however, you’ll want to consider a full replacement. 

When to Think About Window Replacement

Sometimes replacing your windows is unavoidable, especially if rot or damaged glass is extensive. Older windows are often responsible for allowing thermal bridging in a home’s insulation, which means there are gaps in the home’s building layers that allow energy to escape the structure. 

But when you install a new, reliable window product, there are a few ways you’ll benefit: 

• New windows are often more energy-efficient than their older counterparts.
• Window products today come in a variety of contemporary and trendy styles and look great on modern homes.
• You might be eligible for a tax rebate or credit in your state by installing energy-efficient windows. 

Window Replacement Vs. Window Repair

Whether your inspection reveals extensive damage or just minor wear and tear, maintaining the appearance of your windows is key to keeping your home looking like new. Regular inspections and repairs can keep your windows in great shape for decades, but you might find that you’ll need to fully replace some of your units to help adequately insulate your home. 

No matter how you decide to invest in your windows, King County Window & Glass can offer a solution, along with the right services to help you finish the job. From glass repair to skylight replacement, there are several products and services available to help homeowners protect their homes more effectively. King County Window & Glass also offers a one-year warranty on your installation (on top of any manufacturer’s warranty) to guarantee your peace of mind. 

King County Window & Glass makes the process of window repair and replacement jobs easier on homeowners. Get a quote today and let us help you finish your project.