The windows in your home play a vital role—in function, style, and character. When a window breaks, not only does it affect the visuals of a home, it also plays a part in decreasing the energy efficiency of your home. This then begs the question: repair or replace?

Here are a few factors to take in when considering the best option for your windows: 

Are They Stuck Shut? 

Some homeowners choose to paint their windows shut in order to conserve vital energy for the home. However, if this is not the case, it is important to work out exactly what has caused the windows to stick in place. 

First, ensure that all the locks are disengaged before attempting to open them. In the case of sash windows being stuck, there could be an easy fix, such as lubricating them with wax to make them easier to slide. Or, if you no longer want them painted shut, a saw or putty knife will need to be used to cut through the paint. 

If these fixes don’t work, enlist the help of a professional who can cast an experienced eye over the problem. They can tell you if the issue can be fixed or if it would be best to get new windows. 

Are There Signs of Damage and Decay? 

With outdoor elements making their way into the frames, rot can grow, damaging the frame of the window. But though rotten, decayed windows may not look the most visually appealing, they could be a good sign that the window frame can be repaired instead of replaced. 

The window will need to be removed and the frame repaired before the rot causes further damage. Signs of rotten window frames include flaking paint, soft wooden surroundings, and stained surfaces. An expert can help determine the damage if you’re unsure. 

Do Your Windows Fit in with Modern Safety Standards? 

Do you know when your house last had its windows installed? If the house is over 50 years old and still has original windows, there is a high chance that they were painted shut with lead-based paint. Though many homeowners choose to keep original windows for the aesthetic, it’s important to understand the safety concerns of lead-based paint.

This now-banned substance was being used up until 1978 when it was deemed unsafe for use. If used on a single-pane window, this is a sure sign that it’s time to replace the windows, as any friction on the paint can be breathed in causing lead poisoning. A skilled contractor should be brought in to remove this hazardous paint. 

Are You Using the Most Energy Efficient Methods? 

Older homes don’t tend to use energy-efficient methods, as they typically use single-pane glass. Older frames can be drafty, making your home colder in the wintertime. 

There are ways in which to reduce drafts on such windows, such as caulking and weather stripping. To replace the caulk, remove the old caulk, and use a caulking gun to replace it with new caulk. It is important to ensure that limited moisture will reach this area, so do this task when the humidity is low. 

Other options to improve energy-efficiency are to get storm doors and screen windows which add insulation. This can be a cheaper option than replacing windows entirely. 

If your broken windows are causing damage to your home, contact Sivan Windows and Doors today for a quote on your repair or replacement windows.