Best window and door contractors near Plainville, CT

Window seals don’t last forever, so they’ll inevitably fail for one reason or another. One of the most common reasons is the expansion and contraction of the glass. When the glass gets warm from sunlight, it expands and adds pressure to the seal; at night, as the glass cools, it contracts. This process, day in and day out, can eventually cause the seal to fail. Other common sources of failure include the house settling over time, chemicals that damage the seal when repainting windows, and incorrect window installation.

Window repairs cost $175 to $615, depending on the type of repair. Because double-hung windows have two sashes and multiple pieces of hardware, like locks and handles, there are many parts that can break over time. Repairing locks, latches, or other hardware costs about $75 to $200 and is easy to DIY. Fixing one or multiple sashes costs about $200 to $600.

Most window screens last for about 10 to 12 years, assuming they are made from quality materials and receive proper care. The lifespan of common materials like fiberglass and aluminum can vary based on weather exposure, as constant sun or harsh winters can accelerate wear and tear. Regular cleaning and basic maintenance can help extend their life. Signs that a screen needs to be replaced include rips, tears, brittle or sagging material, fading, or a bent frame. While small tears can often be repaired, larger areas of damage typically mean it's time to replace the entire screen.

If your door has interchangeable inserts, you’ll likely want to swap the glass out for a screen during the summer months. The process to do so will vary by door, but you’ll follow these general steps: First, use a flathead screwdriver to pop out the retainer strips—the plastic strips running down both long (and sometimes all four) sides of the door. Then gently pull them out by hand. Carefully remove the glass insert from the door and replace it with the screen. Finally, push the plastic retainer strips back into place, working from top to bottom.