These days, it seems like everyone is on a budget. It’s not funny or shameworthy; it’s just how it is. Many of us have learned to adapt to low-income circumstances long ago. We roll with the punches while keeping our expenses manageable. We’ve made it work.
We make very few extravagant purchases, and trips to the dollar store are integral. We know how to bargain, make the most of our money, and apply that philosophy to everything we can. We are modestly prepared for every unexpected cost necessity.
So what would you do then if, theoretically, an earthquake or other disaster caused a window or three to shatter in your home?
Dealing With Smashed or Cracked Glass on Your Windows at Home
Say they were as old as your house, over thirty years, and you’ve always wanted to replace them. They were drafty and difficult to open and close. But now you are forced to buy them.
You’ve checked with your insurance company, and you’re not covered with the specific cause of damage. An emergency is never convenient.
First, immediately check with your local utility company and the federal tax codes for possible rebates and tax write-offs. Energy efficiency is rewarded.
Also, you must check with your local building codes for the required specs. It can be a hassle, but remember, the right windows will save you money in the long run.
Your windows were designed to be there. They are part of the wall. Now that you will replace them, don’t attempt to remove anything but their casing.
You don’t want to compromise the integrity of the overall structure. Ideally, you’ll hire a professional.
Yes, more windows will take more time & money. The type of window you choose will be a factor, of course, and this is an area that you know you shouldn’t go too cheap on.
You think you might just replace the glass. You’re told the raw material, regular single-pane glass, costs only about $3.00 a square foot. Factor in the supplies you’ll need, such as points, putty, caulk, and a gun, and you’re looking at $16 to $22 per square foot installed.
Having a professional do it will cost about $50 – $100 per window. He’ll likely give you a discount for multiple window replacements.
If the windows to be replaced are double-paned or insulated, labor and glass type will increase the overall cost. In fact, considering all factors, you could be looking at $288 per window.
Since we’re talking primarily about glass replacement, you needn’t consider the frame’s work. However, if it is damaged or just old and sorely in need of retirement, you could be looking at $900 per window.
So, how are you supposed to save money in this crisis? Let’s review costs, from which an option that won’t force you into the poorhouse may be chosen.
A single pane single window will cost around $50.00. Two double-pane windows cost between $350 and $400, while superior Bay windows with three panes can cost as much as $1000. Some of these numbers may be discouraging, but remember that a typical window repair costs $300.00.
However, the best solution is obvious in the example given, where the glass on old, inefficient windows was smashed. Replace only the single-pane glass (as low as $139), then take measures to prevent or limit their draftiness.
Seek the source. Is the weather stripping deteriorated and ineffective? Maybe the window simply refuses to shut completely.
Such a failing may be easily addressed and corrected. Start by replacing the weather stripping (you’ll have to take care in removing the previous layer).
Look for all sorts of cracks and apply Rope Caulk into the gaps where it will form into the space. You may also try Shrink Film, an adhesive covering that responds to heat (use a hair dryer) to shrink and conform to the surface, making an airtight isolator.
Armed with new glass and a reasonably modified frame, this level of repair was easy and required minimal stress.
Let’s hope that this fictional scenario never comes to fruition for you. You may still implement some of the suggestions as preventive measures to eliminate drafts, etc. – and knowing some of the costs related to window replacement will allow you to be better prepared for your window pain.
