Sitting at home, curling up with a book or a Netflix TV show, you are getting cozy when all of a sudden… Did someone leave a window open? Where’s that cold air coming from? It turns out you have a draught coming through, ruining your cozy evening in. What can you do? Blankets might do for the time being, but this can’t go on forever.
Should you replace your windows or simply repair them? It’s hard to find information online because everyone seems to have an agenda or is selling something, and many people distrust double glazing salesmen for just this reason. Read on to find out what you should do in these situations. Is it worth it to get new windows?
- Yes, here’s why
If your windows are damaged and draughty, they need replacing. This is especially true when you’ve already tried some DIY remedies to stop the draught or to repair the damage. This can be done with kits found online, but once you’ve tried something and it hasn’t worked, you’ll want to bring out the big guns – window replacement experts.
If the frames are warped or rotten, they need replacing. Wooden windows are especially susceptible to this when they haven’t been properly maintained, so if this is the case for you, check for signs of water damage or warping. Again, there are possible temporary solutions but for better insulation and a cozy feel, you’ll need new windows put in.
If you’re selling your house and your windows look bad, replace them. No amount of DIY solutions can help you if you’re selling and your windows are old, damaged or faulty. If you can’t afford to do all of them, perhaps concentrate on the most visible and egregious examples first.
- No, here’s why
Don’t replace windows just because a salesman tells you to. If a double glazing salesman has come to your door, it’s because he wants to sell you something. There’s not much else to it. It’s not always in your best interests to take them up on their offer, even if they sound very tempting. Do your research and don’t get caught up in shifty deals.
Don’t get new windows because you’re jealous of a neighbour. This is a short-term strategy that won’t bring you satisfaction in the long run. Think first about your needs and requirements – at the end of the day it doesn’t really matter what your neighbours are doing. Just because they’re sprucing up doesn’t mean it’s right for you!
If your windows are gorgeous originals that are damaged – have them repaired instead of replaced. For those of us lucky enough to live in period homes or conservation areas, there will be some restrictions on the changes we can make to the exterior of the building. Original wooden sash windows are worth a lot of money, so check to see if they are worth saving before making the leap to get completely new windows.
- How to tell if you need to repair or replace?
There are a few techniques you can use to figure out whether your windows need replacing, repairing or just a good clean. The first and most obvious is to ask a professional, which is the best course of action if you want a problem solved fast and easily.
You’ll also want to do your own research, which these days means going online and reading plenty of articles (like this one!). It can be difficult to find accurate window prices online, when even comprehensive guides like this one clearly say that real window prices depend on where you live, the state of your home and other factors.
You can also talk to friends, family, co workers or neighbours who have had their windows replaced. They may be better placed to give you accurate information, especially if they have gone through the process of window repair, replacement or installment recently. It’s worth asking them since personal recommendations are very valuable.
