Repair Existing Windows

Various options exist for improving the energy efficiency of your existing windows, including repairing existing ones. Before investing in these options, check your windows for potential issues that may call for replacement instead:

• Moisture and mold between window frame and wall: If water and water vapors are allowed to penetrate around the window frame, the moisture can cause wall materials to rot and render insulation materials ineffective. If there are any signs of water penetration around your window frame, consider removing the window to repair any damage and protect the wall from mold.
• Lead-based paint hazards: If your windows pre-date 1978, lead-based paint may have been used. Lead paint was banned after 1978 and is especially common in homes built before 1960. Single-pane windows, in particular, are often so old that they present a lead hazard. The dust created from the friction of lead-painted window sashes is harmful to occupants and can lead to lead poisoning among children. If you have reasons to suspect lead-based paint on your windows, consider remedies by experienced contractors such as lead-safe window replacement or hazardous paint removal. For more information regarding lead-based hazards, see Comprehensive information about lead paint exit disclaimer by U.S. EPA and Renovate Right, an EPA program for contractors’ lead-safe home improvement.
• Other issues, such as water leakage through the window itself, rotten or broken window components, and jammed sashes, also need to be addressed, but skilled professionals may be able to repair these faults.

Whatever their physical condition, most old windows lag behind new windows in terms of insulating value, solar heat control, airtightness, and condensation resistance. Whether to tackle these shortcomings by improving the existing windows or by replacing them with energy-efficient ones involves considerations such as potential water and lead issues (mentioned above) and aesthetics, maintenance, cost, and home resale value.

If issues such as water leakage, lead paint, or energy efficiency call for window replacement, select efficient new windows as a replacement.

If cost is a major factor in your decision, consider utility, state, and local incentives.

If your existing windows still hold up to the task, you may improve their energy efficiency with solutions such as:

• Caulking and weatherstripping to reduce air leakage
• Storm windows to reduce heat loss and air leakage
• Solar control window film or exterior shading to reduce solar heat gain