Should I repair old windows or leave them?
Stop wasting money: Should you fix old windows or toss them when selling your home?
Quick answer
If windows are sealed, open/close properly, and don’t leak or draft — repair. If glass is fogged, frames rot, or the home looks dated — replace. Use this rule to maximize curb appeal, energy efficiency, and selling price.
Why this matters for home staging and preparation
Buyers notice windows. They signal care, energy costs, and visual appeal. Poor windows kill offers. Fixing them cheaply can boost the sale. Replacing them raises perceived value and can justify a higher asking price.
Window repair vs replacement: the checklist
- Fogged or broken seals (double glazing): Replace. Fog means lost insulation.
- Rotting wood frames or warped vinyl: Replace.
- Sticking sashes, broken locks, minor cracks: Repair.
- Single-pane in cold markets: Replace if budget allows.
- Black mold or extensive water damage: Replace and fix underlying leak.
Cost vs ROI rule (be blunt)
- If repair < 10% of expected replacement cost and fixes function/looks, repair.
- If replacement cost < 20% of your listing price improvement and windows are visibly old, replace.
Example: If new windows cost $8,000 and repair is $600 — repair. If new windows make the home sell $15,000 higher, replacing is worth it.
Quick actions for sellers (do these today)
- Clean frames and glass. Clean windows show care.
- Reseal and weatherstrip gaps to stop drafts.
- Repair locks and make sure sashes open smoothly.
- Replace fogged panes or any cracked glass.
- If full replacement is needed, choose neutral, energy-efficient styles buyers like.
Staging details that move offers
- Natural light sells homes. Clean windows, thin curtains, and open blinds during showings.
- Match new window style to house era. Modern windows on a Victorian look off.
- Highlight energy upgrades in the listing: “new double-pane windows” reduces buyer worry about bills.
Decision flow: practical rule
- Safety and function first. If unsafe or leaking, replace.
- Appearance second. If windows look old and cheap, replacement helps staging.
- Budget third. Don’t overspend compared to expected sale lift.
Why work with a local expert
I work with sellers to weigh costs, predict buyer response, and connect licensed contractors for the fastest, cleanest job. You get clear numbers, not guesses.
Want an honest assessment for your home? Contact Tony Sousa — Local Realtor and staging advisor. Email: tony@sousasells.ca • Phone: 416-477-2620 • https://www.sousasells.ca
Keywords: repair old windows, replace windows, window repair vs replacement, home staging, home preparation, energy efficiency, curb appeal, selling a house
