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While plywood will keep winds and debris from shattering your windows from the outside, window film can help protect your windows from the inside. Window film can keep a window from shattering. If your windows break, the film can hold the shards of glass in place, reducing the risk of cuts.

While you may sometimes see window film marketed as "hurricane window film," note that it doesn't provide sufficient hurricane protection on its own. It's no substitute for plywood, storm windows, or hurricane shutters.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, low-E windows can reduce energy loss by 30% to 50%. But the actual effect of low-E windows in your home will depend on many factors, like climate, number of windows, window treatments, and more. In terms of aesthetics, you may or may not notice a difference in how your windows look or how much natural light shines through. But overall, low-E windows look very similar to traditional windows.

Most homeowners prefer to service their windows during the spring or fall when temperatures are the most bearable, and having large openings in your wall won’t drastically increase your heating and cooling bills. However, while these seasons are the most convenient, you’ll also tend to pay more for window repair due to the increased demand. If you want to reduce labor costs, consider making window repairs in the off-seasons. Avoid waiting until the heart of winter to do repairs, though, as you could run into leaks and heat loss issues.

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.