Decision guide
Repair or Replace Your Windows?
Repair hardware, balances, weatherstripping and single failed sashes. Replace when the insulated glass seal has failed across several units, the frames are rotting, or you want the energy and wind-rating upgrade a new unit provides.
Verified August 2026
Typical repair cost
$120–$600
Typical replacement cost
$15,200
$7,500–$34,000 range
Expected service life
20–40 years
Should I repair or replace my windows?
Fogged glass in more than a third of the house usually makes whole-unit replacement cheaper per opening.
Repair hardware, balances, weatherstripping and single failed sashes. Replace when the insulated glass seal has failed across several units, the frames are rotting, or you want the energy and wind-rating upgrade a new unit provides.
Decision table
Match your situation to the closest row.
| Situation | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Broken balance or lock | Repair | Hardware is inexpensive and widely available. |
| Fogged glass in one or two units | Depends | Insulated glass units can be replaced alone if the frame is sound. |
| Rot at the sill or jamb | Replace | Structural rot will keep spreading behind any patch. |
| Single-pane windows in a high-cooling-load market | Replace | Energy savings plus comfort typically justify the upgrade. |
| Storm-damaged unit in a wind-borne debris region | Replace | Impact rating requirements apply to the replacement unit. |
Repair when
- • Frames are sound
- • Fewer than a quarter of units affected
- • Original units are under 15 years old
Replace when
- • Widespread seal failure
- • Rot or water intrusion at the opening
- • You need an impact or energy rating you cannot get by repair
What replacement costs
| National typical cost | $15,200 |
|---|---|
| Typical range | $7,500–$34,000 |
| Unit cost | $650–$1900 per window installed |
| Typical timeline | 1-3 days of installation, 3-8 weeks including product lead time and permitting |