Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The presence of condensation on windows which cannot be removed is a sign that the seal on your window is damaged. It also affects the insulating capability of your home. It can cause distorted views through the glass panes.
Defogging can 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 that the replacement is carried out correctly.
Expansion & Contraction
Over time, seals in double pane windows degrade due to expansion and contraction of the spacer that separates the glass. This is due to the temperature cycles that occur throughout the day. When the sun warms the glass, it expands and puts pressure on the window seal. When the glass cools during night, the seal on the window shrinks. The constant contractions and expansions can cause cracks in the seal of the window. This allows humidity to enter the glass, causing fog to form between the panes. This break in the seal allows inert gases, such as argon, which are trapped between window panes, to escape. This significantly reduces the insulating value of the window.
The presence of stains or mold along the edge of double-pane windows are other indications of a damaged seal. You may be noticing a rise in your energy bill or feel drafts in the windows. During this time the window frames may be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a sign you need to replace the window seal.
It's a difficult and labor-intensive task to replace the seals on a dual paned window. It usually involves removal of the old seal and cleaning the windows and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to perform the IGU replacement yourself however, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Mistakes during this process can result in drafts, water damage pest infestations, and more expensive repairs later on.
A professional can assist you in finding the right repair solution for your 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 of the window and the wall to prevent water and bugs from entering your home, or it could involve replacing the entire window with an IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. more tips here can also put in the window using an alternative IGU with a better seal or is better suited to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are made to endure harsh weather conditions. However, prolonged exposure can cause them to break. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the glass within the window to expand and contract. This causes pressure on the seal over time. This is especially the case for homes situated in climates where there are hot summers and freezing winters.
Window seals can also be subject to damage due to extreme weather conditions, high humidity and other environmental factors. Wind specifically, can be particularly tough on windows and cause them to shift or loosen over time. If this happens air can get infiltrated between the glass panes of an insulating window, causing condensation or fogging. Fogging isn't a safety issue, but it can make windows appear ugly and make them hard to see through.
The humidity and water can cause window seals to deteriorate by causing rot on the frame or growth of mold. If you're experiencing any of these issues it's likely that your window seals require replacement.
Another common sign that seals on windows are beginning to fail is higher energy bills. The cooling and heating systems will have to work harder to keep your home comfortable when the window seals are broken, which will result in higher utility bills for you and your family.
You might also notice it becoming more difficult to close or open your windows. This is an indication that the window seals have become stiff, and are not opening or closing correctly. It is important to address this issue before it gets out of hand and your windows will not be as efficient in energy as they ought to be.
Follow the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer to prolong the life of the window seals. It is crucial to wash them regularly using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and to keep them free of dirt and debris. It's also important to avoid using chemical strippers or heat guns on your windows, since they can easily damage the sealant material.
Damage
Modern triple and double pane windows differ from the single-paned windows of the past. They feature glass panes that are separated by air spaces, and then completely sealed around the edges. This keeps moisture out. The spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton to further reduce the transfer of heat or cold outside the window. These kinds of windows are also referred to as insulated glass units (IGUs).
If you notice condensation or indications of damaged window seals, it's best to call a professional to evaluate the situation and decide the best method of action. Doing nothing will only make the problem worse which will result in increased energy costs and more visible impact on your home's comfort.
The most cost-effective option is to replace only the IGU, and keep the frame that you have. This is especially advantageous in the event that the frame is in good condition and offers more R-value than your original windows and allows you to preserve an impressive amount of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged, outdated, or has other exterior damage that is in poor condition, you may be considering a full window replacement to ensure maximum energy efficiency and security. A professional can perform this kind of repair easily and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties, while improving the appearance of your home.
If your window is still under warranty, the manufacturer or installer may be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. Review the window's warranty or contact the original installer to find out whether this is a possibility in your situation.
Installation
Window seals are vital to keep drafts out and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It is not just crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon as you notice it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid any future problems.
Window maintenance is a continual procedure that involves checking for cracks, gaps, and re-caulking if necessary and also cleaning. Re-caulk the window seals at least once every year to reduce the impact of humidity and temperature. This is particularly important for older homes where foundations have shifted since their initial installation.
Regular maintenance of your windows will help you identify any problems before they become a problem. This will allow you to arrange for a professional to fix your windows if needed. If you see condensation between your window panes, it's an indication that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tapping sound when you push on your window it could be a sign that you need to repair the window.
The window seal could break if the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen if your kids or pets accidentally hit the window with a broom, or if harsh cleaning products like paint strippers are sprayed too close to windows. It can also happen when windows are fitted with aluminum frames that don't provide as much insulative value as fiberglass or wood.
If your windows are more recent and still covered by warranty, a repair or replacement is usually the most appropriate option for a damaged seal. This will not only ensure that your window is replaced or repaired quickly, but it may also offer you an opportunity to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, such as fiberglass or wood.
If you have a broken glass unit that is insulated is usually recommended to find an expert who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution. Modern windows often have removable IGUs with gases that are insulating, which allow you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.