A cracked, smashed or broken window doesn't just look unsightly, it can also leave your home exposed to the elements and to thieves. Whether you have a broken window pane or a damaged frame, window repairs are usually more affordable than replacing the whole window.

Compare quotes from house window repair services near you on hipages and read more information about:

•  Why do you need to hire a window repair service?
•  What are the different types of home window repairs?
• What are typical window repair services?
• How much does home window repair cost?
• What factors affect home window repair costs?
• How long does it take to repair windows?
• How often do windows need to be repaired?
• What are some tips to take care of your windows?
• What licences or qualifications does a window repair specialist have?
• Questions to ask when hiring window repair professionals

Why do you need to hire a window repair service?

Windows can be damaged for many reasons. Glass panes can crack, wooden frames can splinter or rot, and opening and closing mechanisms may need to be replaced. Replacing windows can be expensive, but window repair can be a cheaper option, depending on the problem.

Window repair professionals can repair all types of windows, from older-style windows to modern sliding windows. Depending on the type of repair you need, you may need a window repair service or a glazier to fix or replace a glass pane inside the frame.

What are the different types of home window repairs?

A window repair professional may be able to help with both window glass repairs and window frame repairs, or they may only offer one type of service.

If you need emergency window repairs, you should check whether companies offer this service, which will usually be more expensive outside of normal business hours.

In some cases, you may need another service, such as window glass replacement, which may not be offered as a repair job.

What are typical window repair services?

Window repair companies can provide many services, depending on your problem. They are generally able to repair or replace broken glass panels, re-seal windows and repair damaged frames, among other things.

If you're finding it difficult to slide your windows up and down, a professional can replace the sash balances.  If a sliding window is hard to open, they can replace the rollers or wheels. This can also be done with hard-to-open sliding doors.

If you have an older style of window, it's also possible to have the window winders on these replaced with a modern mechanism, so it's easier to open and close the windows.  If security is a concern, windows can be fitted with unobtrusive locks.

Some window repair professionals may also repair other glass types, including doors, mirrors, splashbacks and pool fencing.

How much does home window repair cost?

The cost of window repair will include the labour cost and any materials that are needed, such as new window panes, frames or other components. The total cost to repair a window can be between $250 and $400 per window, on average.

Window repair professionals typically charge by the hour. You could pay anywhere from $50 to $95 per hour, depending on the type of repair and your location. If you need after-hours emergency window repair, the cost could be as high as $150 per hour.

What factors affect home window repair costs?

How much it costs to repair a window can depend on a number of factors, including:

• The type and complexity of repairs
• The size of the window or frame
• The type of glass or frame material
• Whether you need replacement glass or other components
• Whether you need emergency window repair
• Local rates and call-out charges in your area

Labour rates charged by professionals can vary in different cities and states. Some average window repair costs per hour are:

• Sydney - $75–$95
• Melbourne - $50–$85
• Brisbane - $75–$90
• Perth - $60–$80
• Adelaide - $65–$75

How long does it take to repair windows?

Most window repair jobs take around 1–2 hours, including glazing and lock or mechanism repairs. Repairing a damaged frame can take longer, depending on the type of material the frame is made from and its condition.

How often do windows need to be repaired?

Accidental window damage can happen at any time. However, even if you avoid accidents and take good care of your windows, they will still need to be replaced when the seals start to fail. Most house windows last an average of 15–20 years, but this depends on the type of frame and glazing used.

What are some tips to take care of your windows?

Accidents can't always be avoided, but you can lower the risk of windows breaking by being careful not to throw things or move large objects close to them. Having your windows cleaned and inspected on a regular basis can also help to identify problems at an early stage before the damage gets worse.

What licences or qualifications does a window repair specialist have?

Glaziers and window repair professionals in Australia don't require a licence for most projects, unless window repairs are part of a more expensive renovation, in which case licensing requirements can vary by state. Qualified glaziers should have a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing or similar accreditation.

Questions to ask when hiring window repair professionals

Make sure your window repair professional is qualified and experienced by checking their credentials and asking to see references or examples of their work. You should provide as much information about your repair needs as possible so they can give you an accurate quote.

When you apply for quotes from local glaziers or window repair companies in your area, compare at least 3 quotes so you can get an idea of how much the job should cost. Remember that the cheapest quote may not always be the best, and you should base your decision on how comfortable you are with the professional.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.