Repairing a window is a “pane” to fix. That is a really bad pun but sometimes true in that some window repairs are made by simply replacing a broken glass pane. The real “pain” comes from repairs that are more involved and harder to repair. A simple 12 inch by 12-inch pane replacement will cost a DIYer about $15 to $20 with a professional charging $50-100 for the same job ($50 for the work and $50 for a trip charge unless the pro is your neighbor).

The cost of a pro must be considered for multi-window repairs or repairs that are more difficult and involve special tools and procedures.

The number of windows to be repaired is a factor when estimating costs but more important is the size and style of each window. The 12 inch by 12-inch single-pane, single-glass window is $50 but a large five panel bow window with tinted glass might cost over $2500 to replace the glass. You will also have to account for the type of glass and if it is single or double paned with gas injected between the panes to provide some insulation.

Other common window problem are as follows:

A hard to open or close window is a very common problem as humidity can cause wood to expand and get stuck in one position. A window stuck in the closed position can be ignored for a while but if the window is half open or all the way open the choice is to repair it or be prepared with a mop and bucket to sop up rain water on the floor. Sticking can also be caused by paint or any dirt or debris that gets into the window’s tracks. The repair is simple using a putty knife to scrape away the paint or dirt or just clean the track out with a cleanser and lubricate them with a spray lubricant.

Windows that let outside air come inside the room can create uncomfortable drafts and even weird sounds akin to a haunted house on Halloween. This can result in increased HVAC costs and is caused by dry hardened putty falling out of a sealed area or a minor shift in the house’s foundation that compromises the window frame. The easiest solution is to replace hard caulking with new and replace old weather stripping. Alternate solutions are the use of shrink film and even nail polish for a quick fix of a small gap.

Double paned windows have an insulating gas between the panes that can sometimes leak out through even a microscopic sized breach in the seal. Unlike the DIY solutions from A and B you will need the help of an expert to reseal and re-fill with the insulating gas.

The most serious problem with a window is damage to the frame caused by various sources.

A window frame damaged by impact can be repaired by replacing the damage wood areas. The window itself might have to be replaced if it sustained any damage from the impact. Similarly, wood rot is solved by replacing the rotted wood. The window will likely not suffer any damage so will not need any replacement or repair. If you discover termite damage to the wood frame you will have to deal with an exterminator or choose to replace the wood area with a new termite buffet.

There are several types of windows and the repair can be unique to each type. The more expensive types to repair are:

Bay windows – these windows are prone to wood rot issues and being drafty. They also are likely custom made and thus, the pane replacement will be more expensive than a standard size window.

Bow windows – the bow window has an arc or bow shape instead of the angled shape of the bay window. They also have no supporting framing between the panes making for a difficult and expensive repair.

Casement windows - these windows are smaller but have cranks and other moving parts that can be tricky to repair. Their location in basements or near ceilings will make accessing them more difficult than other windows.

Storm windows – Older homes used storm windows before double-paned insulated windows entered the window arena. The cost of the glass and the custom frame puts storm windows on this more expensive to repair list.

Picture windows – These windows are an elegant feature of any house especially if there is a great view to display through it. The bad news is that the large single pane of glass is very expensive to replace. If your 10-year-old son enjoys throwing a baseball against a wall with a picture window, you might want to urge him to throw at a less expensive window.

Finally, repairs to any window will be costlier for difficult to reach windows and those that must be repaired in a tight space.

We, Los Angeles Home Remodelers, pride ourselves on being professional, reliable, and affordable. We can help you build or convert your garage. We are fully licensed and fully insured. Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation at 1-818-532-0482.