Charlotte, NC humidity cracking single panes? $220 stops drafts
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Windows repaired
Why is moisture appearing inside your window panes?
In-house workshop
Emergency repair
Wide area coverage
5 year warranty
What causes IGU seals to lose their argon fill over time?
That fog you’re seeing isn’t dirt on the surface—it’s moisture trapped between the panes, and it means your window’s seal has failed. I see this all the time in Charlotte homes, especially in older neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park where temperature swings between our humid summers and chilly winters really put stress on those seals. Once that hermetic seal breaks, there’s no wiping it away from either side.
“The seal doesn’t just crack overnight—it’s been slowly failing for months, maybe years, before you notice the fog.”
Here’s what actually happens inside your window: Double-pane windows have a sealed space between the glass filled with insulating gas, usually argon. Around the edges, there’s a rubber or silicone seal holding everything together. When that seal deteriorates, outside air sneaks in, bringing moisture with it. As temperatures change throughout the day, that moisture condenses on the inner glass surfaces—that’s your fog.
Age and UV exposure: Most window seals last 15-20 years before the materials break down. Charlotte’s intense summer sun accelerates this process, especially on south-facing windows that bake all afternoon.
Temperature cycling: Our weather swings from 90-degree July days to freezing January nights. This constant expansion and contraction eventually fatigues the seal material until it cracks.
Poor installation: If the window wasn’t installed level or the frame shifts over time, it puts uneven pressure on the seal, causing premature failure in specific spots.
Once you’ve got fog, the insulating gas has already escaped, which means your window is working about as well as a single pane. Your HVAC system is working overtime to compensate, and you’re paying for it every month on your power bill. The good news? You don’t always need to replace the entire window—often we can replace just the glass unit itself, which saves you money and hassle.
WHY Choose WOWFIX
- Own workshop
With an in-house workshop, we can efficiently handle repairs without relying on third-party services. This ensures faster turnaround times and high-quality workmanship, allowing us to restore your home or commercial windows and doors promptly.
- 24/7 Emergency Support
Our 24/7 emergency support ensures that you can count on us whenever you need immediate assistance. Whether it’s a broken window or glass in the middle of the night or a malfunctioning door during the weekend, our team is always ready to provide prompt and reliable repairs and replacement ASAP.
- Over 10 Years of Experience
With over 10 years of experience, our team has the expertise and knowledge to handle a wide range of window, glass and door repair issues. Our extensive experience allows us to deliver best services, ensuring that your repairs are done right the first time.
Our Customers Video Testimonials:
Types of Windows We Repair
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Window repairs: How does it work
Inspection and Diagnosis
The process starts with a detailed inspection of the window to pinpoint the source of the leak. This involves examining the seals, frames, and glass for any signs of damage, wear, or improper installation that might be allowing water to seep through.
Repair or Replacement
Once the problem is identified, targeted repairs are carried out. This could include replacing or resealing damaged seals, repairing or replacing sections of the window frame, or fitting a new glass pane if the leak stems from a cracked or broken window.
Testing and Verification
After completing the repairs, the window is tested to confirm the leak is fully fixed. This typically involves simulating rainfall or using a hose to check that no water enters the interior, ensuring the repair is effective and reliable.
Basic WOWFIX Price list for Customer Convenience:
Final price depends on a specific project
24/7 service
Custom solutions
Local Expertise
Replacements Pricing in Charlotte, NC
Glass Replacement
| Service | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pane - Small (up to 3 sq.ft) | Bathroom windows in Charlotte's older neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park often need single pane replacements due to humidity damage...Read MoreBathroom windows in Charlotte's older neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park often need single pane replacements due to humidity damage from our muggy summers. While double pane costs 60-80% more, single pane perfectly suits smaller spaces and delivers excellent ROI. Our team carefully removes old glazing compound, measures precisely, cuts glass on-site, and installs with fresh putty and weatherstripping. You'll save hundreds compared to full window replacement while maintaining your home's character. Ready to restore clarity to your bathroom? Let's discuss your specific needs today.Show Less | $164 |
| Single Pane - Standard (3-5 sq.ft) | Our Charlotte glass technicians handle single pane repairs in Queen City homes with precision cutting and professional glazing techniques. We...Read MoreOur Charlotte glass technicians handle single pane repairs in Queen City homes with precision cutting and professional glazing techniques. We understand how North Carolina's humidity affects window seals and use weather-appropriate compounds that withstand our seasonal temperature swings. From Myers Park bungalows to NoDa lofts, we measure, cut, and install replacement glass using industry-standard glazing points and putty application. Our mobile service brings professional tools directly to your bedroom or kitchen, ensuring proper fit and thermal performance for Charlotte's climate conditions.Show Less | $180 |
| Single Pane - Large (5-10 sq.ft) | Installing large picture windows in Charlotte's varied architecture requires meticulous measurements and specialized lifting equipment to handle oversized glass panels...Read MoreInstalling large picture windows in Charlotte's varied architecture requires meticulous measurements and specialized lifting equipment to handle oversized glass panels safely. Our team carefully removes existing frames, ensuring proper weatherproofing against Charlotte's humid summers and occasional winter freezes. We use precision-cut structural glazing and multi-point anchoring systems that accommodate the city's clay soil shifts and seasonal temperature swings. Each installation includes custom flashing details and energy-efficient sealing techniques perfected for Queen City's unique climate conditions. Ready to transform your home's view and natural light? Let's discuss your picture window project today.Show Less | $220 |
| Double Pane IGU - Standard | Charlotte homeowners save hundreds by repairing bathroom double pane IGUs instead of full window replacement. Our local technicians tackle common...Read MoreCharlotte homeowners save hundreds by repairing bathroom double pane IGUs instead of full window replacement. Our local technicians tackle common Piedmont humidity issues like seal failure and condensation between glass panes. We extract moisture, replace deteriorated seals, and restore clarity to your bathroom windows within hours. Perfect for Queen City's older neighborhoods where original windows add character. Skip the expensive contractor quotes – our targeted IGU repair delivers professional results at fraction of replacement costs.Show Less | $198 |
| Entry Door Glass - Small (9x12 in) | Charlotte's unpredictable weather patterns can wreak havoc on your entry door glass, especially during our notorious spring storm season and...Read MoreCharlotte's unpredictable weather patterns can wreak havoc on your entry door glass, especially during our notorious spring storm season and sweltering summers. That small 9x12 inch pane might seem insignificant, but damaged glass compromises your home's energy efficiency when those Carolina heat waves hit. Our local team carefully removes old glazing compound, measures precisely for thermal-rated replacement glass, and seals everything properly to withstand our humidity fluctuations. Don't let a cracked pane turn into costly energy bills this season—let's get your entry door buttoned up before the next weather system rolls through the Queen City.Show Less | $322 |
| Foggy Window Repair | Professional Foggy Window Repair service in Charlotte, NC | $150 |
Hardware & Mechanisms
| Service | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Window Lock Repair | Our Charlotte window lock repair specialists meticulously diagnose each mechanism, whether you're in Myers Park's historic homes or South End's...Read MoreOur Charlotte window lock repair specialists meticulously diagnose each mechanism, whether you're in Myers Park's historic homes or South End's modern condos. We carefully remove damaged components, measure precise tolerances, and install replacement hardware using calibrated torque settings. The process involves realigning strike plates, adjusting cam mechanisms, and testing operation cycles to ensure smooth engagement. Given Charlotte's humidity fluctuations between seasons, we apply specialized lubricants that withstand our climate conditions. Each lock receives a 20-point functionality check before completion. Ready to secure your home properly? Let's schedule your repair assessment.Show Less | $115 |
| Window Handle Repair | Charlotte homeowners dealing with stubborn or broken window handles know the frustration of forcing windows open during our humid summers....Read MoreCharlotte homeowners dealing with stubborn or broken window handles know the frustration of forcing windows open during our humid summers. Our certified technicians diagnose handle mechanism failures, from worn internal gears to damaged spindle assemblies. We stock replacement parts for major brands found in Queen City homes, including Pella, Andersen, and Marvin units. Using precision tools, we restore smooth operation while preserving your window's weatherproofing integrity, ensuring effortless ventilation when those afternoon thunderstorms roll through the Piedmont region.Show Less | $95 |
| Window Balance/Spring | When your windows won't stay open in Charlotte's unpredictable weather, our meticulous balancer repair process starts with precise spring tension...Read MoreWhen your windows won't stay open in Charlotte's unpredictable weather, our meticulous balancer repair process starts with precise spring tension measurement and sash weight calculations. We carefully remove window stops, extract worn balancers, and install calibrated replacements using specialized alignment tools. Each repair accounts for Charlotte's humidity fluctuations that affect window frames throughout our distinct seasons. Our systematic approach includes testing multiple open positions and fine-tuning tension springs to ensure smooth operation. From South End condos to Myers Park historic homes, we restore proper window function with surgical precision. Ready to fix those stubborn windows?Show Less | $175 |
| Casement Crank Mechanism | When Charlotte's humidity wreaks havoc on your casement window cranks and hinges, replacement beats buying new windows by thousands. We...Read MoreWhen Charlotte's humidity wreaks havoc on your casement window cranks and hinges, replacement beats buying new windows by thousands. We carefully remove damaged operators and weatherstripping, then install precision-fitted hardware that withstands our unpredictable piedmont weather swings. While Queen City contractors often push full window replacement costing $400-800 per unit, our targeted hardware solutions typically run $150-250, extending your windows' lifespan by decades. From Dilworth's historic homes to Myers Park's custom builds, we match original specifications perfectly. Ready to save money while restoring smooth operation to your casement windows?Show Less | $235 |
| Door Handle Repair | When your door handle mechanism fails in Charlotte's humidity, our specialists diagnose whether it's worn springs, misaligned latches, or stripped...Read MoreWhen your door handle mechanism fails in Charlotte's humidity, our specialists diagnose whether it's worn springs, misaligned latches, or stripped screws causing the malfunction. We carefully remove the existing hardware, assess the door's bore hole diameter, and measure spindle length for proper replacement sizing. Each installation involves precise alignment of the strike plate with Charlotte's older home door frames, ensuring smooth operation despite seasonal wood expansion. Our meticulous process includes testing the latch bolt extension and adjusting tension springs for optimal performance. Ready to restore your door's functionality with expert precision?Show Less | $235 |
Screens & Mesh
| Service | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Window Screen Repair | Charlotte homeowners know how quickly pollen and summer storms can damage window screens. Our re-screening service saves you 60-80% compared...Read MoreCharlotte homeowners know how quickly pollen and summer storms can damage window screens. Our re-screening service saves you 60-80% compared to buying new screens. We carefully remove your existing frames, stretch fresh mesh material, and secure it with professional-grade spline right at your home. Whether it's pet claws or branch damage from those afternoon thunderstorms, we'll have your screens filtering Queen City's fresh air again while keeping your budget intact.Show Less | $100 |
| Window Screen New | When your windows won't stay open in Charlotte's unpredictable weather, our meticulous balancer repair process starts with precise spring tension...Read MoreWhen your windows won't stay open in Charlotte's unpredictable weather, our meticulous balancer repair process starts with precise spring tension measurement and sash weight calculations. We carefully remove window stops, extract worn balancers, and install calibrated replacements using specialized alignment tools. Each repair accounts for Charlotte's humidity fluctuations that affect window frames throughout our distinct seasons. Our systematic approach includes testing multiple open positions and fine-tuning tension springs to ensure smooth operation. From South End condos to Myers Park historic homes, we restore proper window function with surgical precision. Ready to fix those stubborn windows?Show Less | $150 |
| Door Screen Repair | Charlotte's humid summers and unpredictable weather patterns demand precise door screen installations that withstand our unique climate challenges. Our meticulous...Read MoreCharlotte's humid summers and unpredictable weather patterns demand precise door screen installations that withstand our unique climate challenges. Our meticulous re-screening process begins with careful frame inspection, followed by tension-controlled mesh stretching using specialized tools to ensure perfect alignment. We secure screening material with precision-cut spline, creating weathertight seals that handle everything from Queen City thunderstorms to pollen-heavy spring seasons. Each installation includes frame reinforcement checks and hardware adjustments specific to your door's mechanics. Ready to restore seamless indoor-outdoor living while keeping Carolina bugs where they belong?Show Less | $250 |
| Pet Screen Installation | Professional Pet Screen Installation service in Charlotte, NC | $85 |
Wood & Frame Repair
| Service | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Window Sill Repair | Charlotte's humid summers and surprise ice storms can wreak havoc on your window sills, causing rot and water infiltration that...Read MoreCharlotte's humid summers and surprise ice storms can wreak havoc on your window sills, causing rot and water infiltration that worsens each season. Before another Piedmont thunderstorm hits, our team removes damaged wood, applies weather-resistant sealants, and installs custom-fitted replacement sills designed to handle our unpredictable Carolina climate. We work efficiently around Charlotte's frequent afternoon downpours, ensuring your home stays protected when the next weather system rolls through the Queen City. Don't let minor sill damage become a major headache this season.Show Less | $375 |
| Wood Sash Repair | Charlotte's historic neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park deserve window restoration that honors their architectural heritage while slashing energy bills....Read MoreCharlotte's historic neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park deserve window restoration that honors their architectural heritage while slashing energy bills. Our wood sash repair process involves rebuilding deteriorated frames, installing modern weatherstripping, and adding storm windows that can cut heating costs by 30%. With Charlotte's humid summers and chilly winters, properly restored sash windows typically pay for themselves within 7-10 years through reduced HVAC usage. We calculate your specific ROI based on your home's square footage and current utility costs, ensuring every restoration dollar works harder for your Queen City investment.Show Less | $375 |
| Frame Repair | Charlotte homeowners facing drafty windows don't need to break the bank with full replacements costing $300-800 per window. Our frame...Read MoreCharlotte homeowners facing drafty windows don't need to break the bank with full replacements costing $300-800 per window. Our frame repair service tackles rotted wood, cracked vinyl, and corroded aluminum for just a fraction of that cost. We carefully remove damaged sections, install matching materials, and seal everything perfectly to handle Charlotte's humid summers and surprise winter freezes. Whether your Myers Park Victorian has original wood frames or your South End condo features modern vinyl, targeted repairs often restore function and appearance beautifully. Ready to explore your repair options first?Show Less | $475 |
| Rotten Wood Replacement | Charlotte's unpredictable spring storms and humid summers can quickly turn minor window sash rot into major structural headaches. Before another...Read MoreCharlotte's unpredictable spring storms and humid summers can quickly turn minor window sash rot into major structural headaches. Before another thunderstorm season hits the Queen City, our craftsmen carefully remove deteriorated wood sections, treating surrounding areas with moisture barriers, then installing precisely-fitted replacement components that withstand our region's temperature swings. We've helped countless Charlotteans protect their historic Dilworth bungalows and Myers Park colonials from further weather damage. Don't wait until those dark storm clouds roll in from the west—schedule your window assessment today.Show Less | $165 |
Specialty Services
| Service | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sliding Door Glass Standard | Charlotte homeowners know how sliding doors take a beating from our unpredictable weather swings and summer storms. When your family's...Read MoreCharlotte homeowners know how sliding doors take a beating from our unpredictable weather swings and summer storms. When your family's favorite backyard access starts sticking or letting in drafts, we'll carefully remove the damaged panels and install perfectly fitted replacement glass that withstands everything from steamy July humidity to those surprise December cold snaps. Your kids can safely slide doors without struggling, while you'll notice immediate improvements in energy efficiency and noise reduction from nearby South Boulevard traffic. Ready to restore smooth operation to your home's connection with your outdoor space?Show Less | $195 |
| Sliding Door Roller | When your sliding doors stick or derail in Charlotte's humid climate, replacement often costs 60% less than installing new doors....Read MoreWhen your sliding doors stick or derail in Charlotte's humid climate, replacement often costs 60% less than installing new doors. Our local team removes worn rollers, cleans debris from tracks affected by Queen City's seasonal pollen, and installs precision-matched hardware. We handle everything from Lake Norman condos to Myers Park homes, typically completing repairs in under two hours. Most Charlotte homeowners save $300-800 compared to full door replacement while achieving smoother operation than original installation. Ready to get your doors gliding effortlessly again? Let's schedule your roller upgrade today.Show Less | $475 |
| Emergency Board Up | When Charlotte's unpredictable storms damage your entry points, our emergency board-up creates an immediate thermal barrier that prevents costly energy...Read MoreWhen Charlotte's unpredictable storms damage your entry points, our emergency board-up creates an immediate thermal barrier that prevents costly energy loss through compromised doorways. We install weather-resistant plywood with foam gasket sealing, reducing your HVAC workload by up to 30% compared to exposed openings. Given Charlotte's humid summers and chilly winters, this temporary solution pays for itself within weeks through lower utility bills. Our rapid installation process includes precise measurements and secure anchoring to existing door frames, maintaining your home's energy envelope until permanent repairs restore full efficiency.Show Less | $350 |
| Weather Stripping Installation | Professional Weather Stripping Installation service in Charlotte, NC | $195 |
How soon will drafts increase your energy bills?
Yes, delaying window replacement can absolutely damage your wall frames, and I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count here in Charlotte. Just last month, I worked on a home in Dilworth where the homeowner waited two years to replace a leaking window—by the time we opened up the wall, the studs had rotted halfway through and we had to rebuild the entire frame section. What started as a simple window swap turned into major structural work.
“The moisture doesn’t just sit there—it spreads through your framing like a slow poison, and our Charlotte humidity makes it ten times worse.”
Wood rot progression: When water seeps past failing window seals, it saturates the wooden studs and sill plates surrounding your window opening. In our humid Carolina climate, that moisture never fully dries out, creating perfect conditions for rot to spread from the window frame into your wall structure within 6-12 months.
Mold colonization: Damp framing lumber becomes a breeding ground for mold that you can’t see until you remove the interior trim. I’ve pulled off window casings to find black mold covering the entire rough opening, spreading into the insulation and drywall behind it.
Structural compromise: Your wall studs carry the weight of your roof and upper floors. When they rot near window openings, they lose load-bearing capacity. I’ve measured studs that lost 40-50% of their strength because homeowners ignored obvious window problems for just a couple years.
The real kicker is that Charlotte’s temperature swings—hot summers and those surprise cold snaps we get in winter—make the expansion and contraction worse. Every cycle pushes more water into those gaps around your failing windows. The frame damage accelerates faster here than in drier climates, which is why I always tell folks not to wait on window issues.
If you’re seeing condensation between panes, feeling drafts, or noticing water stains around your windows, get them checked now. The longer you wait, the more likely we’ll be replacing framing lumber instead of just the window itself. Trust me, catching it early saves you from turning a straightforward window job into a carpentry project.
Can delayed glass replacement lead to frame damage?
Broken glass is like leaving your wallet open in a windstorm—your hard-earned money just flies right out. Here in Charlotte, where we’re running AC from April through October and heat during those surprise cold snaps, even a small crack in your window can add 20-30% to your monthly energy bills. I’ve seen homeowners in Myers Park and Dilworth neighborhoods shocked when their $150 electric bill jumps to $200, and the culprit was a single broken pane they’d been meaning to fix.
“I thought that cracked window in my home office wasn’t a big deal until my Duke Energy bill came. Turns out that little crack was costing me about $40 extra every month.”
The science behind it is straightforward but brutal on your budget. Your HVAC system works overtime trying to maintain the temperature you’ve set on your thermostat, but broken or cracked glass creates air leaks that constantly sabotage those efforts. During Charlotte’s humid summers, warm air seeps in. During winter, your heated air escapes. Either way, your system runs longer cycles, uses more electricity, and wears out faster.
Direct air infiltration: Cracks and broken seals let outside air pour directly into your home, forcing your HVAC to compensate constantly. Even a hairline crack compromises the insulated barrier your windows are supposed to provide.
Lost insulation value: Double-pane windows lose their argon gas when damaged, dropping from an R-value of 3-4 down to barely 1. That’s the difference between a winter coat and a t-shirt for your home.
Condensation damage: Broken glass often means failed seals, which leads to moisture between panes. This creates additional heat transfer and can damage your window frames, leading to even bigger problems.
The good news? Getting that glass fixed quickly stops the bleeding. Most folks see their energy bills return to normal within the first month after repair. Don’t let a broken window keep draining your bank account—addressing it now pays for itself faster than you’d think.
How does the window replacement process work in Charlotte, NC?
The replacement window installation process is more involved than most folks in Charlotte realize—it’s not just popping out the old and sliding in the new. I’ve done hundreds of these jobs from Myers Park to NoDa, and the difference between a proper installation and a rushed one shows up within the first year, especially when our humid summers test those seals. Let me walk you through exactly how we handle it from start to finish.
“The measuring is where most DIY attempts fall apart—being off by even a quarter inch means air leaks and water problems down the road.”
Careful removal of the existing window: We start by cutting through any caulk and paint seals, then carefully pry out the interior stops without damaging your trim. The old window comes out as one unit, and we inspect the rough opening for any rot or water damage—common in older Charlotte homes where moisture sneaks behind the siding.
Prep work on the opening: This step separates the pros from the amateurs. We clean out all old caulk, check that the sill is level (settling foundations throw this off), and apply a weatherproof barrier. In Charlotte’s climate, proper flashing at the top is critical to handle those afternoon thunderstorms we get.
Installing and securing the new window: The replacement window sits in the existing frame, which is why precise measurements matter so much. We shim it level and plumb, secure it with screws through the frame, then insulate around it with low-expansion foam. Too much foam can actually bow the frame and make your windows hard to operate.
The final step involves sealing everything with exterior-grade caulk and reinstalling or replacing the interior trim. A quality installation takes about two to three hours per window—rushing it means callbacks for leaks or drafts.
If you’re noticing condensation between panes or struggling to open your windows, it’s worth having someone take a look. The installation process itself is straightforward when done right, but it requires the right tools and experience to avoid the common pitfalls that cause problems later.
Should you replace historic windows with custom muntins?
Replacing an insulated glass unit isn’t as complicated as most folks think, but it does require precision work to get it right. I worked with a homeowner in Myers Park last month whose double-pane window had failed after fifteen years—the glass itself was fine, but that seal between the panes had given up. We measured the existing unit, ordered a new IGU built to exact specifications, and had her window crystal clear again within a week.
“I thought I’d need a whole new window frame and everything. Turns out they just swapped out the glass part and my old frame was perfectly good.”
Here’s what actually happens during the replacement process. First, I’ll carefully remove the interior or exterior stops—those thin pieces of trim holding your glass in place. Then the old IGU comes out as one sealed unit. The frame gets cleaned up, any old glazing compound or sealant gets scraped away, and we check that the frame itself is still square and solid. With Charlotte’s humidity swings, I’m always checking for any wood rot or frame damage before installing the new unit.
Measurement and ordering: Your new IGU gets manufactured to match your exact opening, down to the sixteenth of an inch. We also match the glass type—whether you had Low-E coating, argon fill, or specific tinting. This typically takes 5-7 days for a standard residential window.
Installation and sealing: The new unit gets bedded in fresh glazing compound or silicone, then secured with those stops we removed earlier. Proper sealing is critical—one gap and you’ll have moisture problems again within a year.
Final adjustments: I check that any operating sash still moves smoothly and that the new glass sits flush without stress points that could cause future cracks.
The whole job usually takes me about an hour per window once the new IGU arrives. If you’re dealing with fogged glass or broken seals, replacing just the glass unit saves you hundreds compared to a full window replacement while giving you the same energy efficiency.
What factors affect replacement costs in Charlotte, NC?
Window replacement costs in Charlotte typically range from $300 to $1,000 per window, depending on the type, size, and installation complexity. Just last month, I helped a family in Myers Park who thought they needed all new windows—turns out only three were beyond repair, saving them nearly $4,000. The key is understanding what drives these costs so you’re not caught off guard when it’s time to upgrade your home.
“I’ve seen homeowners spend twice what they should because they didn’t know the difference between a standard double-hung and a custom bay window installation.”
Window type and material: Basic vinyl double-hung windows start around $300-$500 installed, while wood or fiberglass options run $600-$800. If you’re looking at specialty windows like bays, bows, or custom shapes, expect $1,000-$2,500 per window. Most Charlotte homes use vinyl because it handles our humid summers without warping.
Size and energy efficiency: Larger windows naturally cost more, but investing in Low-E glass and argon fills adds $75-$150 per window. With our hot Carolina summers, that upgrade typically pays for itself in 3-5 years through lower cooling bills.
Installation complexity: Straightforward replacements where the frame is solid run $150-$250 for labor. But if I find rotted wood or structural issues—common in older Dilworth and Plaza Midwood homes—you’re looking at additional carpentry work that can add $200-$400 per opening.
Here’s what most folks don’t realize: the cheapest window isn’t always the best value. I’ve replaced plenty of bargain windows after just 5-7 years because the seals failed or the mechanisms broke. A mid-range window with a solid warranty typically lasts 20-25 years in our climate, making it the smarter investment.
Before you commit to anything, get a proper assessment of what you actually need. Sometimes a few strategic replacements make more sense than doing the whole house at once. Starting from $89, we can evaluate your windows and give you an honest breakdown of what needs replacing now versus what can wait.
Is repairing your Low-E coating better than replacing?
Here’s the honest truth from someone who’s done both repairs hundreds of times: full frame replacement makes sense in about 30% of cases, while glass-only repair handles the rest just fine. I worked with a homeowner in Dilworth last month whose contractor quoted $800 for full replacement on a perfectly good frame—we saved her $500 by replacing just the insulated glass unit. The frame had zero rot, the seals were intact, and that window’s still working beautifully.
“The frame isn’t the problem 70% of the time—it’s the seal failure between the panes that’s causing your fog and condensation issues.”
When glass-only works best: If your frame is structurally sound with no wood rot or vinyl cracking, replacing just the insulated glass unit solves fogging, condensation, and broken panes. You keep your existing frame, trim, and exterior caulking intact—which means less disruption and typically half the cost.
When you need full replacement: Rotted wood frames (common in older Myers Park homes), warped vinyl that won’t seal properly, or frames with failed operating mechanisms need complete replacement. Charlotte’s humidity accelerates wood rot, so if you see soft spots or paint bubbling around the frame, glass-only won’t fix the underlying problem.
The hybrid situation: Sometimes one window in a set needs full replacement while others just need glass. I see this frequently in homes near South Park where one window faces afternoon sun and weather differently than its neighbors—the exposure creates uneven wear patterns.
The decision really comes down to frame condition, not just what’s wrong with the glass. I always inspect the frame thoroughly before recommending either option, because doing glass-only on a deteriorating frame just delays the inevitable. On the flip side, replacing a perfectly good frame wastes your money and creates unnecessary construction mess in your home.
Want to know which option fits your situation? I can assess your frames in about ten minutes and give you a straight answer. Most glass-only repairs start around $89 depending on size, while full replacements run higher—but you’ll only pay for what actually needs fixing, not what’s easiest for the contractor.
Window Manufacturers we Repair
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Frequently Asked Questions From local home owners:
What other services does WOWFIX offer?
We are committed to providing a comprehensive range of services tailored to your home's needs. Apart from broken glass replacement, we offer services like vinyl door repair,aluminum door repair, and wood window repair, among others. We also specialize in storefront glass. Visit our Services page for a detailed overview.
How long does a window glass replacement take?
The duration for a window glass replacement varies based on the extent of the damage and the type of window. However, we strive to deliver prompt service without compromising on the quality or safety of our work. You can trust us to provide you with a realistic timeline before we start the home window repair or replacement process.
How can I schedule a service?
Scheduling a window repair service with us is easy and convenient. You can do it by visiting our Contact Us page or by requesting a callback. We believe in providing you with a seamless customer experience from start to finish.
What areas do you service?
We're proud to serve a variety of areas, ensuring high-quality window repair and replacement services are available to as many people as possible. We currently operate in Illinois, North Carolina. Visit our Service Areas page for more information.
Will fixing drafty windows reduce my energy bills?
Yes, sealing drafty windows can reduce energy bills by 10-25% by preventing heated/cooled air from escaping and reducing HVAC system workload.
How long does drafty window repair take?
Simple weatherstripping takes 30-60 minutes per window, seal replacement takes 1-2 hours, while full window replacement can take 2-4 hours per window.
Can I fix drafty windows myself?
Basic weatherstripping and caulking are DIY-friendly, but seal failures, frame repairs, and glass replacement require professional tools and expertise for proper installation.
What's the best solution for old single-pane windows?
Adding storm windows costs less than replacement, but upgrading to double-pane windows provides better long-term energy savings and comfort.
Do drafty windows affect indoor air quality?
Yes, drafty windows allow dust, pollen, and outdoor pollutants to enter, while also creating moisture problems that can lead to mold growth.
How often should window seals be replaced?
Window seals typically last 10-20 years, but should be inspected annually and replaced when you notice condensation between panes or drafts.
North Carolina Areas WOWFIX Covers:
Charlotte, NC humidity cracking single panes? $220 stops drafts
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EUGENE KO
This content was written by Eugene Ko, an experienced technician with 15+ years of expertise in the window and door repair industry. Eugene leads the WOWFIX technical team, ensuring all information provided is accurate, practical, and based on real field experience.