Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The presence of condensation on windows which cannot be removed is a sign that your window seal is broken. This can also cause distortions in the view through the glass and impact the insulation of your home.
While defogging windows can temporarily solve the problem, a permanent solution involves replacing the glass unit that is insulated (IGU). This is best handled by a professional window manufacturer to ensure the replacement is carried out correctly.
Contraction and expansion
The seals on windows with dual panes can be damaged as time passes 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 the glass, it expands, putting pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down at night, the seal on the window shrinks. These constant expansions and contractions may cause a crack in the seal of the window. This allows humidity in, creating fog between glass panes. This crack in the seal can allow inert gases such as argon, which are trapped between window panes, to escape. This greatly reduces the insulation value of the window.
The presence of stains or mold along the edges of double-pane windows are other indications of a damaged seal. You may also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts near the windows. During this time windows can also pull away from walls or shift. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced.
It is a complex and labor-intensive job to replace the seals of a dual paned window. This usually involves taking off the old seal, cleaning the windows, and replacing the IGU. While it is possible to replace the IGU on your own, hiring a professional is strongly recommended. Making a mistake during this process could cause drafts, water damage, pest infestations, and more costly repairs later on.
A professional will also assist you in determining the best repair solution to your situation and can provide guidance on a long term plan to keep your window sealed correctly. This could involve a short-term solution, such as sealing the gap between the window frame and the wall to stop insects and water from getting into your home, or it may involve replacing the entire window with a brand new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. It could also mean installing an entirely new window that has a different IGU that has a higher quality seal or is better appropriate to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. However, exposure to constant pressure can cause them to fail. The most common culprits are extreme temperature fluctuations that can cause the glass to expand and contract, putting pressure on the window seal over time. This is especially true in houses that are situated in areas that experience hot summers and cold winters.
Window seals are also prone to damage caused by storms, high humidity and other environmental factors. Wind can be particularly hard on windows, causing them to shift with time. In double glazing window seal repair , air can infiltrate between the glass panes of an insulating window, leading to condensation or fogging. While fogging is not an immediate danger but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to look through.
In addition, humidity and water can cause window seals to deteriorate by causing rot on the frame or mold growth. If you are experiencing these issues, it is likely that the window seals need to be replaced.
Another indication that seals on windows are beginning to fail is a rise in energy bills. Heat and cooling systems will need to work harder to keep your home cool in the event that the seals on your windows have failed and will result in higher utility costs for you and your family.
It could also be getting more difficult to close or open your windows. This could be a sign that the seal of your window has become stiff, which is preventing it from properly opening and closing. This problem must be taken care of before it becomes a major issue and your windows will not be as energy efficient as they ought to be.
You can extend the lifespan of your window seals by following the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance. It is crucial to regularly clean them using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and keep them free of dirt and debris. Avoid using heat gun and chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily cause damage to the sealant.
Damage
In contrast to the single-pane windows of the past, today's modern triple- and double-pane windows have glass panes separated by air space and then completely sealed around the edges to keep out humidity. The spaces between the glass panels are often filled with inert gasses like Krypton and argon, which minimizes the transfer of heat and cold outside the window. These windows are also called Insulated Glass Units (IGUs).
If you spot condensation or other signs of broken window seals, it's best to consult a professional evaluate the situation and decide the best way to proceed. Ignoring the issue will only increase the severity of the issue, leading to more energy costs and a more visible impact on the comfort of your home.
The most cost-effective option is to replace only the IGU, and keep the frame that you have. This is particularly beneficial when the frame you have is in good condition and offers a higher R-rating than the original windows which allows you to keep an impressive amount of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged or outdated, or has other exterior damage and is in poor condition, you may want to consider a full window replacement to ensure maximum energy efficiency and security. This type repair can be accomplished quickly and easily by a professional, and can improve the appearance of your home and restoring the window's insulation properties.
If your window is covered by warranty the manufacturer or installer might be willing to replace 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 whether it's possible.
Installation
Window seals play a vital role in keeping drafts away and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It's not only important to repair a damaged window seal when you notice it, but also conduct preventative maintenance that will help to avoid problems in the future.
Window maintenance is a continuous process that involves checking for gaps, cracks and re-caulking as needed, as well as cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the window area each year in order to limit the extent to which humidity and temperature affect the seals on your windows. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been settling since the initial installation.
Conducting regular maintenance on your windows can help you spot problems before they turn into an issue with the seal, so you can arrange an appointment with a specialist to make repairs as required. If you notice condensation between window panes, it could be an indication that your frame and glass isn't sealed properly. This could lead to poor air quality indoors. In addition, if you can hear a sound of tapping when you press on your window, it's a sign that the window is sagging and in need of repair.
A window seal can also break when the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen if your pets or kids accidentally hit the window with a broom, or if harsh cleaning materials like paint strippers are applied too close to windows. This could occur if you have aluminum frames on your windows, which don't provide the same insulation as fiberglass or wood.
A damaged seal should be repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered by warranty. This will ensure that your window can be quickly repaired or replaced. It could also provide you with the opportunity to upgrade to an energy-efficient frame, such as fiberglass or wood.
If you've broken an glass insulated unit it is recommended to find a professional who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective way to go. It's important to note, however, that many modern windows have removable IGUs that contain gas that is used to insulate which allows you to replace only the glass unit instead of the entire window and frame.