6 Easy Ways to Avoid Costly Window and Door Replacement

Replacing windows and doors can be an expensive endeavor. Even worse, the cost of these repairs is only going to increase over time. Thankfully, there are some relatively easy ways for homeowners to avoid the hefty fees.

Here are a few of them.

1.  Perform Regular Maintenance

Inspect your windows and doors regularly. Check for damage, including warping, rot, peeling paint, or rust, and handle them before they become more significant problems. Regular maintenance can reduce the need for costly replacements. Cracked glass can be a big problem that requires replacing the entire window unit. However, if your window is only cracked and not shattered, you may be able to make it like new again by simply applying clear nail polish to the crack. For maximum durability, use two layers arranged perpendicularly to each other (crosshatch).

2.  Clean Them Regularly

Dirt and grime build up over time and can cause premature wear and tear on windows and doors. Regularly clean your windows and doors with soap and water to extend their lifespan. Water stains can ruin the appearance of any window. Instead of spending money on expensive cleaners (which will generally not work anyway), simply use lemon juice to rub the problem away. Place a thin layer over the stain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then scrub it away with a soft cloth and wipe clean. Shaving cream may also be great for removing water spots on your windows. Squirt a generous coating onto the glass surface and wipe it off with paper towels or old rags. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry. This method works well on glass shower doors too!

3.  Add Weather Stripping

Weatherstripping helps seal out drafts, increasing energy efficiency and reducing mold, mildew, and moisture in the home. Double-hung windows that don’t open or close properly can be fixed by adding weather stripping around the edges of the sashes. This simple trick makes a huge difference in how smoothly your windows operate. It will also help keep energy costs down. Door sweep weatherstripping is a low-cost home improvement tip that may help avoid the need for replacement. Adding caulking may be a great idea as well. Caulk helps keep out drafts which increase energy efficiency and reduce moisture build-up in your home.

4.  Fix broken Window Seals

Windows with broken seals let out heat, which means you are paying top dollar for gas or electricity to stay warm. Instead of spending money on new windows every year, try using freeze spray insulation. It’s quick and easy to apply and costs just a few pennies per window. Be careful, though—this stuff is very sticky and will get all over you and your window if not applied properly. Alternatively, you can paint a small amount of ordinary white glue on windows and doors, then stick a sheet of newspaper on top to create a seal. This will stop air from entering your home, which reduces the likelihood of your windows fogging up or freezing over.

5.  Keep Condensation Moisture Away

Condensation Moisture forms inside the glass on windows and doors when the temperature of the glass surfaces changes. For instance, if you’ve used plastic wrap to prevent cold air from entering your home, then your window or door may begin to fog up. To prevent this annoyance, place a sheet of wax paper over the glass surface to create an insulating barrier.

6.  Rollers for Your Sliding Doors

Sliding glass doors tend to warp over time due to temperature shifts. If your door begins to stick or jam more than usual, consider investing in new rollers or other hardware as soon as possible. It’s much cheaper and easier to install replacement parts than to have windows and doors completely replaced. A door or window replacement can set you back hundreds of dollars. With the above tips, however, you can keep your home comfortable and save a lot of your money.