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Rotting Wood Windows: Repair or Replace?

old rotting wood windows

Here is an example of a rotting wood window in Houston
Rotting Wood Windows

PLEASE NOTE: We do not offer repair services for wood windows. This article is my point of view regarding the benefits to replacing vs repairing wood windows.

Do you have issues with rotting wood windows? This can happen in even the most beautiful neighborhoods in Houston. The beauty of real wood windows can create a wonderful and warm look to any home, but Houston weather is brutal on wood windows, and they eventually will begin to have wood-rot issues even if they are cared for properly. If you live in a home with wood windows that was built prior to the mid-1930s, you probably do not have to deal with rotting wood windows. However, homeowners who live in homes built after 1980 are far more likely to. The wood used in homes built 80 or more years ago is far better than the wood we have seen in recent years. The old wood is much stronger and seems to last forever if painted often and maintained properly. If you are reading this article, you are probably looking for solutions to rotting wood windows. Read on to find out what you can do to repair or replace your rotting wood windows in Houston.

Should I Repair or Replace My Rotting Wood Windows?

The quick answer: Repair your rotting wood windows if you just need to sell your house. Replace them if you plan to stay in your home for a few more years. However, there are some things you should know about each course of action.

Repairing Rotting Wood Windows

Rotting wood window repair can be functional, but it usually sticks out like a sore thumb. If you need to “patch” your windows to get through a season or two, or if you are planning to put your home on the market and just want to fix the problem, a wood repair job may be exactly what you need. The cost of repairing a rotting wood window can be higher than replacing one because the companies who do so typically work on historical properties that require extreme attention to detail. However, the cost may be worth it if you want to preserve the beauty of your home or live there for years to come.

Replacing Rotting Wood Windows

Fiberglass Windows
Here is an example of a wood window that we replaced with the Milgard Fiberglass window.

Many window companies will be quick to claim that they offer rotting wood window replacement, but they often resort to invasive procedures like sawing, cutting, painting, replacing interior trim, and repairing sheetrock. These methods can lead to additional costs and avoidable damage. Pocket windows are a great option for replacing rotting wood windows. A pocket window is a window designed to replace wood windows without resorting to invasive repair. If you have already finished the inside of your walls and trim, a pocket window is often the best option for replacing existing rotting wood windows.

See how the clad rotted off of this 12 year old Pella window?
See how the clad rotted off of this 12 year old Pella window?

Who Makes a Good Pocket Window?

Anderson, Pella, and other brands offer wood windows that are merely capped with aluminum covers. But when that aluminum is breached, water can penetrate the wood and lead to further rot. Milgard and Marvin are the two best replacement window manufacturers for replacing original wood windows with new materials that offer the beauty of wood and the durability of fiberglass. These windows are made from fiberglass and have a half-inch layer of real wood on the interior. That way, you get real wood on the inside, but any areas that might get exposed to water are made from composite materials. Most window brands offer 10-year warranties, but Milgard offers a lifetime warranty on their windows.

Get Advice from a Wood Window Replacement Professional

If you are dealing with rotting wood windows, you need advice from real, proven window replacement professionals. With more than 12 years of experience in window replacement and installation, our team can help fix even the toughest challenges. Contact Houston Window Experts at (832) 900-7024 today to start on your rotting wood window replacement. Jeff Ludy- Owner   Edited 11/19/18

We are the Houston Window Experts! Contact us today for a Free Consultation on how we can help with your window needs. You may also call us directly by dialing 832-900-7024.

Our Services include: Replacement Windows Houston, TX metro area. Houston Window Experts is a privately owned and operated company in Houston TX. For more information about us, please write to info [at] HoustonWindowExperts.com or call our Houston office at (832)900-7024. All material is copyright of Houston Window Experts. Houston, TX.

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