Can I Repair My Own Leaking Windows?

Many homeowners are reluctant to invest in basement window or waterproofing repair for fear of how much those repairs might cost. Unfortunately, the longer you let water damage work on your windows, the more likely it is that the damage in question will spread to other parts of your basement, foundation, and other areas of your home. With that in mind, is it worthwhile to take on DIY basement window repair, or should you reach out to area professionals instead? 

• Considering the Cost 

Repairing leaking basement windows without professional guidance is an expensive endeavor. The good news is that you don’t have to go about too much excavation work if you already have window wells in place. The bad news is that you’re going to have to assess your property not only for the source of your window damage but for any other signs of damage that might indicate a more serious problem with your home’s structural integrity. 

Once you’ve got the preliminary work out of the way, you’re going to have to make room in your repairs budget for the special tools and materials you need. These materials can cost a pretty penny, especially without a contractor’s pre-existing industry deal on your side. Not only will you have to purchase your materials at market price, but you may also have to invest in one-time-use tools made specifically for repair purposes. Comparatively, contractors already have most of these tools on hand, meaning you won’t have to factor those purchases into your services quote. If you’re looking to save money, DIY basement window repair may not be your best option. 

• Considering Your Time 

If you haven’t repaired damaged windows in a professional capacity, you may not know where to begin when it comes to leaking or warping basement windows. Even if you manage to get your hands on the tools and materials you need to bring these windows back into alignment, you risk worsening the damage already done to your foundation by proceeding. 

Not only that, but you are going to lose time as you go about a DIY window repair project. Without additional helping hands to make the work go faster, these projects can take weeks at a time to finish. During that block, you’ll have to contend not only with the repair learning curve but with the variable weather in your area as well. Comparatively, professionals can assess your home for damage, conduct repairs, and install preventative measures on a tight turnaround, meaning you can go back to living your life as usual sooner rather than later.