Summers in Pocatello are hot and dry, while winters are often freezing and accompanied by snow. These temperature fluctuations affect windows across all properties, and the swings between day and night can cause window frames to contract or expand. As a result, gaps, sealing issues, and drafts crop up often. If you have noticed changes in windows, should you replace them or consider repairs? Top glass installation services in Pocatello, such as Nu-vu, recommend a site inspection to determine the best course of action. Nu-vu has presence across cities, including Twin Falls, and the team works with residential and commercial clients alike.
In this guide, let’s talk when window repairs are worthwhile and situations in which replacements are better.
Critical Role of Windows in Pocatello Homes
Windows don’t just serve as ventilation points. They are responsible for controlling light, noise, and heat transfer. If your windows are old and not repaired on time, you can expect a heating/cooling loss of 30% or more, which only means more energy bills. Many neighborhoods in Pocatello have mid-century builds and older homes, and window performance across properties is often a shared concern.
Signs You Can Repair Your Windows
There are some telltale signs that repairs are still possible, such as:
- Minor damage to frames: If the issues are small, such as minor cracks, chips, or flaking paint, you can probably manage with repairs.
- Hardware issues: If only locks are damaged or the latches don’t work as before, you can easily change the hardware without considering frame replacement.
- Weatherstripping problems: Installation experts can replace seals in some cases without touching the glass.
- Broken glass: If one or two windows have a broken glass pane but the seal and frame are intact, replacing the same is possible.
- Remember, the condition of frames and existing glasses is critical, so if you suspect a problem, at least get the windows checked by an expert.
Signs You Must Replace Your Windows
Here are some signs that you have to replace the windows:
- Sealing failures in double-glazed windows, with signs like fogging between panes
- Warped or rotted frames
- The windows are more than two decades old
- Inability to open or close windows due to frame swelling or shifting
- Rattling glass, especially older single-pane windows
Replacements are expensive, but when problems are evident, get estimates from a professional glass and window installation service in Pocatello.
Climate-Related Considerations
Whether or not you should repair/replace windows also depends on the climate. The winter here is long, which means regular single-pane or damaged double-pane windows will eventually increase heating bills. During summer, west and south-facing windows that don’t have Low-E coatings can cause extra heating inside. Properties close to open areas and foothills often face higher wind pressure, and poor sealing and loose frames only add to the problem.
Cost Check: Repair vs. Replacement
The cost of both repairs and replacement should be considered. Replacing a pane of glass can cost between $100 and $300, depending on the type of glass used. Frame repairs can cost as much as $400 per window. Replacements are more expensive, especially if you choose energy-efficient double-glazed windows. Don’t discard the idea of replacement for the upfront cost, as there is also the resale value to consider. Check with installers to know the best price they can offer and what they would recommend for your home.
Takeaways
If you decide to replace old windows with ENERGY STAR-certified ones, you may benefit from Idaho Power rebates and additional federal tax credits. In any case, windows over 25 years of age with visible signs of damage and outdated efficiency ratings should be replaced. There are also situations where the cost of total repairs is almost equal to replacement.