Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The presence of condensation on windows which can't be removed is a sign the seal on your window is 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, but the best solution is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This is best handled by a professional window company to ensure the replacement is done properly.
Contraction and Expansion
The seals on windows with dual panes can become damaged in time due to the expansion and contraction of spacers that separate the glass. This is because of the temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats up the glass, it expands putting pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down and the window seal shrinks, it expands. These constant contractions and expansions could cause a crack in the window seal, which allows humidity to get into the window, causing fog between the glass panes. This break in the seal can allow inert gases like argon, which get trapped between window panes, to escape. shower screen replacement seal affects the insulation of the window.
Other indicators of a broken window seal could be visible staining or mold on the edge of a double-pane window. There could be an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts near the windows. During this time windows can be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a clear indication that the window seal needs to be replaced.
It's a complicated and labor-intensive project to replace the seals on a dual paned window. It usually involves removing the old seal, cleaning the windows, and then replacing the IGU. While it is possible to replace the IGU by yourself however, hiring a professional is strongly advised. This process is prone to errors that could cause water damage and pest infestation.
A professional can help you find the best 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, like sealing the gap between the frame and the wall to stop water and bugs from entering your home, or it could involve replacing the entire window with a new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. You can also install a new window that uses an alternative IGU with more seals or is more suitable for the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are made to withstand extreme conditions, prolonged exposure to elements could eventually cause them to fail. The most common causes are extreme temperature fluctuations that cause the glass to expand and contract, placing pressure on the window seal over time. This is especially the case for homes situated in climates where there are hot summers and frigid winters.
Window seals are also susceptible to damage from high humidity, storms and other environmental factors. Wind can be particularly hard on windows, causing them to shift over time. In this case air can get infiltrated between the glass panes of an insulating window, leading to condensation or fogging. Fogging isn't a safety issue, but it could make your windows look bad and make them difficult to see through.
Water and humidity can also cause window seals to degrade by causing rot on the frame or growth of mold. If you're experiencing these issues, it's likely that the window seals will need to be replaced.
Another indication that seals on windows are beginning to fail is higher energy bills. Heat and cooling systems will have to work harder to keep your home comfortable if the seals on your windows have failed which can result in higher utility bills for you and your family.
You may also notice that it is becoming more difficult to open and close your windows. This is an indication that the window seals have become stiff and are not opening and closing correctly. This problem must be taken care of before it becomes a major problem or your windows won't be as energy-efficient as they could be.
Follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer to extend the lifespan of the window seals. This includes regularly cleaning them with mild detergent or another approved cleaning agent and ensuring they are free from dirt and debris. It's also important to stay clear of using chemical strippers or heat guns on your windows, since they can break the sealant material.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's triple- and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space and then sealed completely around the edges to keep humidity out. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas such as Krypton or argon to reduce the transfer of heat or cold outside the window. These kinds of windows are also known as Insulated Glass Units (IGUs).
If you spot condensation or other indications of broken window seals, you should to consult a professional examine the situation and determine the right course of action. In the absence of this, it can cause more damage, resulting in higher energy bills and a negative impact on the comfort of your home.
The most cost-effective option is to only replace the IGU and keep the existing frame. This is especially beneficial in the event that the frame is in good condition and offers an R-value higher than your original windows and allows you to preserve a large amount of insulating efficiency.
If the frame is damaged, old, or has other exterior damages and is in poor condition, you may think about a complete window replacement for the highest energy efficiency and security. This kind repair can be completed quickly and easily by a professional, enhancing the appearance of your home 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 you are, make sure to check the documentation for your window, or contact the installer to determine if it is possible.
Installation
Window seals play an essential role in keeping drafts away and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It is not just crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it but also to perform preventative maintenance to avoid any future problems.
Window maintenance is an ongoing process that involves checking regularly for gaps and cracks, re-caulking as required and cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the window area each year in order to limit the amount of humidity and temperature affect the window seals. This is especially crucial for older homes whose foundations have shifted since the original installation.
Regular window maintenance will also assist in identifying any problems before they become problematic. This allows you to plan a repair with a professional your windows as required. If you notice condensation on the window panes it could indicate that the frame and glass is not properly sealed. This could lead to poor air quality inside. If you also hear a thumping sound when you press on your window it's a sign the window is sagging and requires repair.
Damage to the frame of the window can also cause the window seal to break. This can happen when your pets or children accidentally smash a window using 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 do not provide the same insulation as wood or fiberglass.
A broken seal is best replaced or repaired if your windows are still under warranty. This will ensure that your window is swiftly repaired or replaced. It could also provide you with the opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient frame such as wood or fiberglass.
In the case of an insulated glass unit (IGU) which is damaged, hiring a professional to repair it is usually the 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 in place of the entire window.