Reglazing vs. Replacing Windows: What Is Best for Your Home?

Drafty windows, condensation, mould spots, or cracked glass can leave you wondering whether reglazing or replacing is the right option. And the answer really depends on what’s actually wrong – and how much you want to spend. In this guide, Glass Repair Canada breaks down the differences, costs, and best use cases, so you can make the best call for your home.

What Is Reglazing and How It Works

First of all, what is window reglazing? Well, reglazing basically means replacing the glass, as well as the sealing material that holds it in place. This means you don’t replace the entire window; the frame stays the same, although the technician may repair some minor damage.

It’s usually less disruptive and quicker than replacing the window, and as such, reglazing is cheaper than replacement. However, it only makes sense if the window frame and rough opening are still in good condition.

(In older homes, some people use ‘glazing’ to refer to the putty or compound around the glass. Over time, it cracks and loosens, letting in drafts and moisture. In this context, reglazing a window means replacing that sealing material. We’re explaining the definition of reglazing as defined above.)

What Does Full Window Replacement Involve?

A full window replacement means removing the entire window unit from the rough opening (the hole in the wall for your window), including the frame, sash, and glass, and installing a brand-new window in its place.

Technicians take the old window out. They then check the surrounding structure for rot or damage, and make any necessary repairs before fitting the new window. They’ll secure, insulate, seal, and finish the new window on both the inside and the outside.

Because everything is replaced, a full window replacement allows you to change the window’s style, materials, energy-efficiency features, and size (within limitations). Entirely new windows also allow you to address problems that reglazing won’t fix, such as warped frames, water damage, or major air leaks.

Now, full window replacement does cost more, and it takes longer than reglazing. However, it provides a complete reset when your existing window is beyond repair.

Cost Comparison: Reglazing vs Replacing

It’s very difficult to give any exact figures for comparing the costs of reglazing vs. replacing your windows. That’s because windows come in all sorts of different sizes, shapes, finishes, frames, and so on. Frames can also be in anything from perfect condition to rotting away, translating to more or less repair work and labour time.

That said, here are a few very rough Ontario-based estimates for your consideration.

• Reglazing: about $300 to $700 per window.
• Replacing: about $600 to $1,200 per window

Energy Efficiency and Performance Differences

A specialist knows when reglazing is a feasible approach, and when it’s time to make the call for an altogether new window. Reglazing is an effective way to restore performance, but replacement can improve it even further.

A full window replacement usually performs better (in terms of heat retention, moisture diversion, and energy efficiency) than reglazing. That’s because you’re replacing the entire structure (frame design, weatherstripping, thermal breaks, overall airtightness, etc.). Reglazing can restore performance, but it won’t necessarily match a modern high-performance window.

If, on the other hand, someone reglazes your window when it really should have been replaced, you’ll find that the new glaze doesn’t last long. It won’t be long before you notice the same draft and moisture problems as before. That’s why it’s so important to work with a specialist window repairer or installer.

When Reglazing Makes Sense

Over time, double-glazing eventually lets in moisture if and when the seal fails. The seal can naturally peel or crack. Reglazing is a simple way to repair this without replacing the entire window. The earlier you get it done, the more moisture damage you’ll prevent.

Reglazing is also a cost-effective way to repair pane damage like cracks or stone chips.

It all comes down to the root issue – usually the seal, the window frame, or the rough opening. If these are in good condition – that is, they’re smooth, level, with no rot and minimal physical damage – reglazing is just as effective as a new window. And it’s cheaper.

When Replacement Is the Better Option

However, full window replacement makes more sense when you find deeper issues. For instance, cracked seals or panes may have allowed moisture in, leading to rot around the window frame or rough opening.

And also, if you’re looking to upgrade your windows (such as upgrading to double- or triple-glazing), you’ll almost always need to replace your windows.

In cases like this, reglazing the window won’t actually fix the problem. You’ll need an entirely new window.

Pros and Cons Side by Side

Here’s a summary of everything we’ve discussed so far, side by side.