Repair or replace – is it time for new windows & doors?

16th March 2023 - By Jason Clemmit

During the war, the British Ministry of Information issued a pamphlet called Make Do and Mend, giving homemakers useful tips on being frugal in times of harsh rationing. The book has now been updated and reissued, offering similar advice for 21st-century families.

The phrase ‘make do and mend’ has never really left the national vocabulary since that 1943 pamphlet, and in this age of recycling and sustainability, it’s never been more relevant. However, when it comes to window repairs, it’s not always quite so simple to ‘patch them up’ – here we talk about when you should opt for window repairs or replacement windows.

What’s the problem with your window?

The first thing to determine is what the issues are with your windows. If it’s any of the following, you will need to address the problem sooner rather than later, as your window won’t be performing how it should be.

• Broken or damaged: If you have a broken window, whether that’s frame or glass, then as well as having a considerable impact on its thermal efficiency performance, it could also be dangerous. This will need addressing very quickly to avoid any possible hazards.

• Problems with noise: Modern double glazing has excellent acoustic performance to absorb and dampen sound waves, keeping the interior of your home nice and quiet. Single glazing will not provide the same levels of noise reduction, so if you still have single panes and would like to reduce the volume of exterior sound, it might be time to consider replacing them. However, triple glazing can increase the noise in a home as the third pane of glass creates an echo chamber which amplifies the sound. This can be fixed with a special laminated layer on one of the panes.

• Leakages: If water is leaking inside through your window, it needs to be tackled urgently. This water can cause damage to the interior of your property and if it is left, can also lead to mould and rot.

• Mould and rot: Nobody wants dampness or mould in their home – it can lead to all manner of health issues and cause issues to other components of your home, whether structural or cosmetic. Timber windows are particularly prone to rot when exposed to long periods of water around the frame, causing damage and affecting the insulation performance of the window.

• Faulty operation: If you are having trouble opening or closing your windows properly, then it’s likely that they aren’t successfully preventing the cold air from coming in or your warm air from escaping, leading to potential draughts and higher heating bills.

• Faulty locks: This is a significant safety and security issue and must be a top priority. Locks can sometimes be replaced without replacing the whole window.

Window repairs or replacement?

Depending on which of the above problems you’re experiencing with your windows ultimately guides whether window repairs will fix the issue or you need a replacement window.

While choosing the repair approach will correct many of these issues, it’s worth checking how old your windows are. All products have a shelf life, and windows typically have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years, so if they are approaching that age, it might be best to replace them for a long-term solution.

However, not only is repair usually a cheaper option it’s also typically the preferred choice when it comes to traditional properties, as it can sometimes be challenging to replicate the style with modern frames.

Replacement windows – the benefits

As with all products, technology has come along leaps and bounds over the years, including windows. If you decide to replace your existing windows with new ones, you can expect a host of benefits.

Energy efficiency

Windows have been designed to be much more thermally efficient over recent years, so new double-glazed windows will perform better than those from 15-20 years ago.

If your existing windows are single-glazed, then the difference will be significantly noticeable. Or you could invest in triple glazing for even better results, whether double or triple glazed; new windows will help to keep the heat inside your home and cut those energy bills down.

Acoustic performance

If you live in a busy area and have to contend with traffic and other noise while trying to relax in your home, the advances made in modern windows concerning acoustic performance will help recapture your peace and quiet.

Low maintenance

If you’ve had to undertake a repair on your windows, there’s a good chance that the issue may reoccur several times, so new windows may be the best option.

Peace of mind

If you do invest in replacements, you will have the peace of mind that a manufacturer warranty protects your new windows.

Repair or replace – what’s the cost?

The cost of repairing a window varies depending on the window type, the window material, the problem, and the individual rate charged by whomever you find to correct the issue. Still, it could cost as much as £500.

When it comes to budgeting for replacements, it again depends on what windows you choose. Factors such as style, size, glazing choice, finish, and material affect the price.

uPVC is the cheapest material of choice, which is why uPVC windows are the most popular – although many homeowners prefer the more aspirational options of timber and aluminium. However, these materials do cost more.

If you are beginning to have issues with your existing windows and they are more than 10 years old, the best long-term solution would be to invest in replacements. Not only will you be able to cut your heating costs, but you will have the peace of mind of a warranty.

If you have any further questions about repairing or replacing your windows, please get in touch with a Certified Competent Installer.