When a window is damaged, you need to repair or replace it. However, you might have trouble deciding what's the best option to make. Whether to replace or repair the window depends on several factors, including the window's age, the damage's extent, and your preferences.

If you have a broken window, this post outlines when to repair or replace it and the pros and cons of each.

When To Replace Your Windows

The following are reasons why you should replace a damaged window instead of replacing:

• High Energy Bills

If your windows are damaged, they can increase your monthly energy bills. Poorly sealed and damaged windows seep out heat, thus putting a strain on your pocket. Experts suggest that nearly 25% of energy bills result from faulty windows. Even the most minor crack allows heat to escape to the outside, causing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to work harder than usual.

If you're tired of higher energy bills every month and your windows are damaged, consider replacing them with energy-efficient ones. This will significantly help reduce your heating and cooling costs. Nonetheless, avoid installing replacement windows yourself to avoid later issues. Consider hiring window replacement services for proper installation instead. 

• Severe Window Damage

Repairs may not be a good idea if your windows’ damage is severe. In such cases, it's more cost-effective to replace the windows. When your windows are severely damaged, the regular repair costs are often higher than replacement costs.

• Significant Water Leakage

If your windows leak water, the issue is usually with the exterior window casing or cracks near the window. You can repair these issues without a glitch. Yet if the problems are fixed, and there's still water leakage, it might result from the window itself. Leaky windows have to be replaced, as they can't be fixed.

Pros And Cons Of Replacing Window Damage

Replacing a damaged window is a long-lasting solution. It also comes with the following advantages:

• New windows improve your home's energy efficiency;
• Replacing a window restores its functionality; and
• New windows are durable and have more extended warranties, meaning they'll last longer than repaired windows.

While replacing windows might be a permanent solution, it comes with the following disadvantages:

• Replacing your windows is more expensive than repairing them;
• If you have an older or historic home, new windows can alter its initial aesthetic; and
• Window replacement is more time-consuming than repairs.

Before replacing your windows, remember that your home's exterior appearance might not remain the same.

When To Repair Your Windows

The following are instances when a window repair is the best option.

• Cracked Or Broken Glass

If you have a cracked or shattered glass window, repairing it is easier and cheaper than replacing it. Nevertheless, replacing your at-home windows is more cost-effective if the window is damaged or glass repeatedly shatters in the same frame.

• Jammed Windows

When paint residue enters between the frame and the window sash, it can cause rigidity, making it difficult to open. Stuck windows can be easily repaired at home. All you need to do is remove hardware like staples, nails, and screws. 

If the window is still stuck, use a putty knife to poke open the window sash. After removing the sash, check for broken parts that could be causing the issue and repair them.

• Rotten Wood

If you have wooden windows, they may rot with time due to moisture exposure. If the damage isn’t extensive, replacing the rotted wood is the best solution. But replacing the window is necessary if the rot has affected the entire window.  

• Minor Water Damage

As stated, water leaks in your home often come from areas near your window but not through the window. Drainpipes or poorly draining gutters usually force water towards the walls causing areas around the window to leak. This can be fixed by re-routing your drainage system.

Pros And Cons Of Repairing Damaged Windows

The following are the advantages of window repair:

• Repairing your window is more cost-effective than replacing it;
• Repairs are also completed quickly; and
• If you have a historic home, repairing the existing windows can help preserve the original aesthetic

Here are the disadvantages of window repair:

• If repairs aren’t executed correctly, it could lead to further damage and even replacement;
• Repairs don't fully restore windows functionality; and
• Window repair services offer limited warranties, meaning they don't protect against future damage.

It’s vital to understand that the success of window replacement depends on the contractor’s experience of performing such tasks.

The Bottom Line

Repairing or replacing your windows can save money and keep your home safe. Yet there are factors to consider before deciding. 

If you have minor issues such as minor leaks, jammed windows, broken glass, or rotted wood, repairing your windows may be the best option. Meanwhile, if your windows are severely damaged, have significant leaks, or are inefficient, it may be time to replace them. 

If you're still unsure whether to repair or replace damaged windows, consult window experts to help decide the best course of action to take.