The Basics of Commercial Window Repair and Replacement for Facility Managers

Any experienced facility manager knows that commercial windows require periodic maintenance and repair. Aside from ensuring that the windows are clean and sealed, every now and then, windows can get damaged. 

There are many causes for window damage—from weather and birds to normal wear and tear. Commercial window repair is a routine part of the upkeep of your buildings. 

As a facility manager, there are some basics you should be aware of when it comes to commercial window repair and replacement.

Review the Damage to the Window

The first step in any commercial window repair or replacement situation is to assess the damage to the window. Assessing the damage is important for several reasons. 

First, it is helpful to know what caused the damage. Was it something within your control, like a sign placed on the building? If so, making this determination can help you avoid future damage.

Second, reviewing the damage can help you determine how immediately has to be repaired. A quick assessment will inform whether the situation is an emergency that needs immediate attention or whether the damage is minor and can be postponed.

Finally, assessing the damage will help inform the conversation with a window repair professional. Before a commercial window repair company sends out a repair person, they’ll likely want to know the scope of the damage.

Determine the Cost of the Project

When it comes to commercial window repair, a project’s cost can vary greatly. A small amount of damage may only be a few hundred dollars, while widespread damage may cost thousands. 

The best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to call a window repair specialist right away. A reputable company will be able to give you an estimate on how much it will cost to repair the damage. 

Once you have an estimate from one or more window repair companies, you can work with your building owner to determine the next steps.

Decide Whether to Replace or Repair the Window

Sometimes the decision to repair or replace a window is easy. In some circumstances, when there is just minor damage, replacing the window will be significantly more expensive than repairing it. 

Other times, a window may be beyond repair, and replacement is the only option. However, the decision is not always that easy, and both repair and replacement are viable options. A window professional can help you weigh your options, but there are several factors you should consider in the process.

Age

First, consider the age of the window. If the window is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, it may make sense to replace the window. Repairs on old windows generally don’t last, and you can use this as an opportunity to replace aging and energy inefficient windows.

Quality

Second, consider the quality of the window. Some commercial buildings were constructed with poor-quality windows. Low-quality windows are not energy efficient, don’t last as long, and aren’t aesthetically pleasing. If your building has low-quality windows, replacement may be a better option than repair.

Budget

Finally, consider whether you have flexibility in your budget. If your building’s budget is already stretched, perhaps window replacement is not a feasible option at this time. If you have some breathing room, window replacement can be an excellent long-term investment. 

It’s All About Prevention

As a facility manager, you must approach commercial window repair in a thoughtful way. Repairing commercial windows can be a considerable expense, so knowing the basics ahead of time can save you a lot of headaches and money down the road.