Get matched with top window pros in Lillian, AL

When your double-hung window upper sash keeps falling down, it means you could be letting out warm air in the winter or cool air from the AC in the summer. That means your HVAC system works harder to warm or cool the house, costing you extra on electric bills.

If the lower sash continues to fall down, it means when you’ve popped open the window for fresh air, it could slam shut. In addition to being inconvenient, this could be dangerous if you have small kids, children, or pets that like to hang out by the window.

Bay windows are expensive mostly because their above-average size means higher material costs. Unlike bow windows, most bay windows also include casement windows on either side of a picture window, and the opening mechanisms for casement windows drive up costs. You’ll also pay higher labor costs to install a bay window, as you’ll often need multiple technicians to lift the window into place.

Garden windows last about 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials, ongoing maintenance, and local climate. Fiberglass and wood windows tend to have the longest life spans as long as you keep up with cleaning, lubricating, and refinishing them. Make sure to inspect your windows about once a year for signs of trouble, like worn-out seals, frame damage, or cracks in the panes.

Deciding whether to repair or replace a window depends on the specific issue, the window's age, and the cost-effectiveness of the solution.

Repair is often better for:

• Minor issues such as a single broken glass pane, a stuck window, or small leaks. Repair is typically more affordable for isolated problems.

Replacement is the better long-term solution for:

• Major problems like deteriorating or rotting frames, significant leaks, or drafts.

• If your windows are over 15 years old, as repairs may only be a temporary fix for an aging unit.

• If you have a widespread problem affecting several windows.