Questions about windows and glass in Kingston, Ontario

Usually a repair job. The thermal unit, which pros also call a sealed unit, can be replaced on its own when the frame and sash are sound. A rotting frame or a sash that won't operate points to a new window. Our guide to repairing or replacing sets the two side by side.

Run a cloth over the inside of the glass. If it clears, it's condensation, humid indoor air meeting cold glass on a January morning, and a humidity problem rather than a glass one. Haze between the panes that won't wipe off means the seal has failed. See foggy thermal units.

Usually, yes: the pro replaces the glass, whether a pane in an old sash or one thermal unit, and leaves the frame alone. The price turns on size, glass type, shape, how reachable the window is and the frame's condition. See broken window glass.

Yes, before any permanent repair. Whether a policy pays depends on its wording and your deductible, which only the insurer can confirm. Photograph the damage before anything is swept up or covered, and ask for a written quote to send them.

Replacing a window or door at the same size generally doesn't, per the City's building permit page. Creating or altering an opening does, such as enlarging a basement window, and so does work on a heritage building or in a heritage district. Loyalist Township and Gananoque issue their own permits.

Ask the City's Heritage Planning staff. The City's three heritage conservation districts are Barriefield, Market Square and Old Sydenham. Changing windows on a designated property or inside a district needs heritage approval first; maintenance is generally exempt. The heritage homes guide lists what to ask.

Ontario's Home Renovation Savings Program helps with complete ENERGY STAR windows and doors, generally after a home energy assessment; a glass-only thermal unit swap doesn't qualify. Better Homes Kingston isn't accepting applications, so watch for a relaunch. A pro can quote replacement windows to eligible specs.

It adds an outer layer of glass that cuts drafts and lake wind and shelters the wood, while the original sash stays put, which matters on a designated house. They're still made, often as combination units with a summer window screen. See storm windows.

Most torn screens need only new mesh and the rubber spline that holds it. A new frame is worth it when the old one is bent, cracked at the corners or missing. One screen is a real job, and a photo with rough measurements helps. See window screen repair.

Tell your landlord in writing, with a photo, and let them arrange the repair. Queen's off-campus housing guidance expects rentals to have secure locks, working screens and reasonably draft-free windows, a useful checklist. A landlord who needs someone can send a request.

Before the late-summer turnover, not during it. Screens and locks are usually simple, but a thermal unit or sash pane is made to size after a measuring visit. Photograph each unit at move-out and send them together. The rental turnover guide has a checklist.

Matching costs you nothing. We pass your request to an independent local pro who does that kind of job; they measure, quote and do the work under their own contract with you. We follow up if it goes quiet. See how it works.