Making the optimal repair versus replacement decision requires systematic evaluation of current performance, improvement potential, and cost-effectiveness. Use this comprehensive assessment framework to determine the most cost-effective approach for each window and door in your home.
Window Condition Assessment
Frame Condition (Weight: 30%)
- Excellent (0 points): Tight joints, no rot or damage, smooth operation
- Good (2 points): Minor issues, occasional sticking, small gaps
- Fair (4 points): Moderate problems, visible wear, some gaps
- Poor (6 points): Significant damage, difficult operation, large gaps
- Critical (8 points): Structural damage, rot, inoperable
Glass and Seals (Weight: 25%)
- Excellent (0 points): Clear glass, intact seals, no fogging
- Good (2 points): Minor scratches, seals mostly intact
- Fair (4 points): Some seal failure, occasional fogging
- Poor (6 points): Broken seals, persistent fogging between panes
- Critical (8 points): Cracked glass, complete seal failure
Hardware and Operation (Weight: 20%)
- Excellent (0 points): Smooth operation, secure locks, proper alignment
- Good (2 points): Occasional stiffness, all components functional
- Fair (4 points): Regular adjustment needed, some hardware wear
- Poor (6 points): Difficult operation, loose or broken hardware
- Critical (8 points): Inoperable, missing or severely damaged hardware
Energy Performance (Weight: 25%)
- Excellent (0 points): Triple-pane, Low-E, minimal air leakage
- Good (2 points): Double-pane, some energy features
- Fair (4 points): Double-pane, no special coatings
- Poor (6 points): Single-pane, some storm windows
- Critical (8 points): Single-pane, no storm protection
Scoring Interpretation:
- 0-6 points: Repair focus – weatherization and maintenance
- 7-12 points: Selective approach – repair or budget replacement
- 13-18 points: Replacement recommended – significant improvements possible
- 19+ points: Priority replacement – major energy and comfort issues
Door Assessment Criteria
Structural Integrity (Weight: 35%)
Examine door and frame for warping, rot, cracks, or damage. Measure gaps around the perimeter – consistent gaps under 1/8 inch indicate good condition, while variable gaps exceeding 1/4 inch suggest structural problems requiring replacement.
Insulation Value (Weight: 30%)
Assess door core material and thickness. Solid wood doors provide minimal insulation (R-2 to R-3), while insulated steel or fiberglass doors achieve R-5 to R-15. Feel temperature differences across the door surface on cold days to identify thermal weak points.
Air Sealing Performance (Weight: 25%)
Test air leakage using the hand method – moving your hand around the door perimeter on windy days reveals air infiltration locations. Professional blower door testing quantifies air leakage more precisely, with quality installations achieving less than 0.3 CFM/ft².
Hardware Condition (Weight: 10%)
Evaluate locks, hinges, handles, and weatherstripping condition. Quality hardware should operate smoothly and securely, while weatherstripping should remain flexible and create consistent contact around the entire door perimeter.