Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The condensation on windows that isn't able to be wiped away is a clear indication that the seal of the window has been damaged. This can cause distortions in the view through the glass and affect the insulation of your home.
Defrogging can help temporarily fix the issue however, the best option is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This should be handled by a professional window manufacturer to ensure the replacement is done correctly.
Contraction and Expansion
Seals in dual-pane windows may be damaged over time due to the expansion and contraction of the spacers that separate the glass. This is due to the cycles in temperature that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats the glass, it expands, putting pressure on the window seal. At night, as the glass cools down it shrinks the window seal. The constant contraction and expansion could cause a crack in the window seal allowing humidity to enter the window, creating fog between the glass panes. repairmywindowsanddoors in the seal can allow inert gases, such as argon, which are trapped between window panes, to escape. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window.
Mold or stains along the edges of double-pane windows can be signs of a broken seal. There could be an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts around the windows. During this time the window frames may also pull away from walls or shift. This is a clear sign that the window seal has to be replaced.
It is a complex and labor-intensive task to replace the seals of a dual paned window. This typically involves removal of the old seal and cleaning the windows and then replacing the IGU. While it is possible to complete the IGU replacement yourself, hiring a professional comes highly recommended. This procedure is susceptible to mistakes that can lead to water damage and pest infestation.
A professional can help you find the most appropriate repair solution for your particular situation and offer suggestions on how to keep the seal on your window over time. This could be a quick solution, such as sealing the gap between the frame and the wall to block water and bugs from entering your home, or it could require replacing the entire window with a brand new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. You can also install an entirely new window that has an alternative IGU with more seals or is more suitable for the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are made to endure harsh weather conditions. However, constant exposure can cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass in the window to expand and shrink. This can put pressure on the seal over time. This is especially true for homes in areas which experience hot summers as well as freezing winters.
Window seals can also be subject to damage caused by storms, high humidity and other environmental elements. Wind particularly can be extremely hard on windows which can cause them to move or become loose over time. In this case air can get infiltrated between the glass panes in an insulating window, which can cause condensation or fogging. While fogging isn't a danger to your safety but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to see through.
Water and humidity can also cause window seals to degrade through causing rot to the frame or growth of mold. If you're experiencing these issues it's likely that your window seals require replacement.
The higher energy bills are a indicator that the window seals are beginning to fail. If the window seals are damaged, your cooling and heating systems will have to be more efficient to keep your family and you comfortably. This will result in higher energy costs.
You might also notice that it is becoming more difficult to open or close your windows. This is an indication that the seals on your windows have become stiff, and are hindering them from opening and closing properly. It is crucial to fix this issue before it becomes a major issue or your windows won't be as energy efficient as they could be.
You can extend the life of your window seals by observing the instructions provided by the manufacturer for maintenance. It is essential to wash them regularly using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents and to keep them free of debris and dirt. It is also crucial to avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers on your windows, since they can break the sealant material.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's modern triple- and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space and then completely sealed around the edges to keep humidity out. The spaces between the glass panels are usually filled with inert gasses like Krypton and argon, which helps to reduce the transfer of cold and heat outside the window. These windows are also called insulated glass units (IGUs).
Contact a professional if detect any indications of damaged seals or condensation. They can evaluate the situation to determine the best way to proceed. Ignoring the issue will only cause more damage, leading to increased energy costs and more obvious impact on the comfort of your home.
Generally, the most affordable option is to replace your IGU while keeping the existing window frame. This is especially advantageous if the current frame is in good condition and offers more R-value than your original windows and allows you to preserve a large amount of insulating efficiency.
However, if the current frame is in poor shape or has a long-lasting issue and is causing damages to its exterior, a full window replacement might be the best option for maximum energy efficiency and security. This type of repair can be done quickly and easily by a professional, improving the appearance of your house while improving the insulation properties of your window.
If your window is covered by warranty, the manufacturer or installer may be willing to exchange or repair the damaged IGU at no cost. If you are unsure about this, look up the warranty for your window or contact the installer to see if it is possible.
Installation
Window seals play a vital role in keeping drafts out and ensuring that your home is energy efficient. Not only is it crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid any future problems.
Window maintenance is a continuous process that includes regularly checking for cracks and gaps and re-caulking when necessary, and cleaning. It is recommended to re-caulk the area around your windows once per year to limit the amount of humidity and temperature affect the seals on your windows. This is particularly crucial for older homes whose foundations have shifted since the first installation.
Regular window maintenance will also assist in identifying any problems before they become a problem. This will allow you to plan a repair with a professional your windows when needed. If you notice condensation between the window panes, it's a sign that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tap sound when you press your window, it could be a sign that you should repair the window.
A window seal may also break if the frame of the window is damaged. This could occur when your children or pets accidentally strike a window with a broom or when harsh cleaning products, such as paint strippers were applied too close to windows. It can also happen if you have aluminum frames that are installed on your windows, which don't provide the same insulation as wood or fiberglass.
A broken seal is best repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered under warranty. This will not only guarantee your window is repaired or replaced swiftly, but it may provide you with the chance to upgrade to a more energy efficient frame material, like fiberglass or wood.
If you have an insulated glass unit (IGU) that is broken and requires professional help to repair it is usually your most cost-effective and long-term solution. Many modern windows have removable IGUs that contain the gases that are insulating, which allow you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.