A Repair or Replace Guide from DunRite
Navigating window repairs and replacements can be tricky, given the conflicting and sometimes incorrect information found online. Whether you’re dealing with broken glass, replacing a window or something else, it’s important to know who to contact.
Rosie Certified Partner DunRite Windows & Doors has created a handy guide to address a few of the most common questions ChatGPT could come up with. AI questions, real answers.
Window Replacement vs. Repair: Making the Right Call
Can I replace a single window?
Yes, you can replace a single window. However, it’s important to differentiate between replacing a window and replacing just the glass. For broken glass, you shouldn’t call a windows and doors company unless it’s something they installed that might be under warranty. You’d call a glass repair company. In the case of a single window replacement, a handyman is often the most cost-effective solution.
If it’s just one or two windows, you can try calling a windows and doors company, but if they didn’t install your windows, they might turn down the job unless they happen to be handling a larger project in the area, or it’s during their slow season. It doesn’t hurt to try, but you’re backup plan would be a handyman.
A handyman can also replace broken hardware, reseal a small leak, or deal with minor issues like blocked weep holes, loose weatherstripping or caulking replacement.
Can I replace a single pane?
You can replace a single pane of glass in a single-pane window (hello, old aluminum single-panes, right?) However, you cannot replace one broken pane of glass in a double- or triple-paned window. The entire glass component must be changed out. This ensures the warranty remains valid, and the original features are matched as closely as possible, such as color, energy-efficient or gas fills. Caulking a single pane of glass over existing unbroken glass will decrease energy efficiency and void the warranty.
Should I replace all of my windows?
Consider replacing all of your home’s windows if they are:
- Original single-pane aluminum, or more than 15-20 years old
- Drafty and leaking, causing high energy bills
- Fogging up between the panes of glass, signifying broken seal
- Warped or cracked, compromising their integrity
- Outdated and unappealing
Modern, energy-efficient windows can address these issues. We’d be happy to schedule an appointment at our Phoenix showroom or in your home to explore your options.
How do I measure for replacement windows?
Thinking about replacing a window using your DIY skills? There are a few tricks-of-the-trade to be aware of when it comes to measuring replacement windows, says DunRite owner Sal Sucato.
First, measure the opening (not the window) in three places horizontally and vertically, then use the smallest measurement for each. Then, assuming the window is square and true, Sucato recommends subtracting 1/2 to 3/8 of an inch from each measurement to allow room for adjustment. This ensures a proper fit without forcing the window into place.
How do I replace a window screen?
You have several choices when it comes to screens.
If the windows are only a few years old, it’s worth contacting the manufacturer or installer to see if there is warranty coverage in place, or to ask if they sell screens. For example, DunRite Windows & Doors will sell OEM screens at our cost to our customers. You may find that most window and door companies won’t sell replacement screens if they didn’t install the windows, however, so here are some alternatives:
- Use the existing frame and buy screen supplies at a home improvement store to replace the mesh within the frame yourself,
- Order a replacement screen online that fits measurements you provide, or
- Hire a company specializing in window screen replacements.
I have a motorhome or RV. Who replaces those windows?
Traveling homes also have different solutions for window replacement versus glass replacement. When it comes to the various classes of RVs, or a motorhome (such as a single- or double-wide trailer), these are specialty providers.
For window replacement in an RV, we recommend contacting the closest dealership, or for the uber-handy DIYer, perhaps order a window replacement kit online. Sucato (who is an RV owner himself) recommends an OEM repair for best results, but it’s definitely not a job for a windows and doors company like DunRite.
For broken glass, you may find an automotive glass repair specialist that handles RVs, but you wouldn’t call a residential glass repair company. Your best bet, though, is to spend a few minutes online searching for a local RV glass repair company.
Motorhomes—such as a single- or double-wide trailer—are handled like a house, not an RV. Like a built residence, you can reach out to a local windows and doors company for replacing the windows in a motorhome, or a glass repair company for replacing glass. While they might be available, it’s often not necessary to use a specialist.
Here’s an interesting fact: because their window openings are narrower than a home, all residential window replacement products won’t work in a motorhome, but there are plenty of options that will. Do-it-yourselfers should take particular care when measuring the depth of the opening, to ensure they purchase product that will fit.
What about a storm or security door. Would I call a windows and doors company for that?
Replacing a storm door or security door can easily be handled by a window and door company, a company specializing in just security doors, or a handyman… there are an assortment of options to consider. It’s a fairly simple DIY task, too, for those inclined to install a door from a home improvement store.
For those who would like a customized door, and manufacturers or upgrades that aren’t available from Lowe’s or Home Depot, a handyman wouldn’t be the best option, but it might be perfect for repairs, such as replacing a handle, lockset, hinge or screen. Repairs not under warranty can easily be managed by a handyman.
Replacing safety glass on a storm door should always be done by the installer or a glass repair company, since it’s a laminated glass product.
Don’t Forget About The Warranty!
Before making any repair or replacement decision, always check your warranty details. Many window manufacturers offer comprehensive warranties that might cover repairs or replacements for a specific period. Even if you aren’t the original purchaser, all or part of the warranty might transfer to the new homeowner, so it’s best to check.
Reach out to the window manufacturer directly, or if you made the purchase, consult your original window installation documents to understand the warranty specifics.
###
CONTENT PARTNER | DunRite Windows & Doors
DunRite Windows & Doors is a locally owned and operated family business in Scottsdale, with a solid reputation, incredible customer reviews, and competitive pricing on top brands. In addition to being Rosie on the House Certified, they are certified and authorized dealers for multiple manufacturers, and have several FGIA Installation Master certified installers on the team, ensuring you the best workmanship possible. Schedule a quote and ask for the Rosie on the House discount today!
PHOTO CREDIT
- DunRite Windows & Doors
