Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
Condensation on windows that cannot be cleaned away is an obvious sign that the seal of the window is broken. This can cause distortions in the view through the glass and impact the insulation of your home.
While defogging your windows may temporarily resolve the issue A permanent solution is replacing the glass unit that is insulated (IGU). This is best handled by a professional window company to ensure that the replacement is done correctly.
Expansion and Contraction
As time passes, the seals on double pane windows degrade due to contraction and expansion of the spacer separating the glass. This is due to the temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands as sun heats it the seal is placed under pressure. As the glass cools down at night the seal on the window contracts. These constant expansion and contractions can result in a break in the window seal permitting humidity to enter the window, creating fog between the glass panes. This break in the seal permits inert gases like the argon gas, which is trapped between window panes, to escape. This affects the insulation of the window.
Other indications of a damaged window seal are visible mold or staining along the edges of a double-pane window. You may also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts in the vicinity of the windows. In this process the window frames could be pulled away or shift from the wall. This is a sign that you should replace the window seal.
Replacing the seals in windows with dual panes is a fairly complex and labor intensive project that usually requires the removal of the old seal as well as the new one, cleaning both windows, and then replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to complete the IGU replacement yourself but hiring a professional is highly recommended. Incorrect decisions during this process could result in drafts, water damage, pest infestations, and more costly repairs later on.
A professional can also help you find the most effective repair solution for your particular situation, and offer suggestions on a long-term plan to ensure that your window is sealed correctly. This could include a short-term solution, like caulking the gap between the frame and the wall to block insects and water from getting into your home, or it could require replacing the entire window with a new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. You could also install an entirely new window that has a different IGU with more seals or is better suited to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are made to withstand the harshest conditions in the weather, continuous exposure to elements could eventually cause them to fail. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the glass in the window to expand and shrink. This puts pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly true for homes located in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
High humidity, storms, and other environmental elements can also cause damage to window seals. Wind can be especially tough on windows, causing them to shift over time. If this happens air can get infiltrated between the glass panes of an insulation window, causing fogging or condensation. Fogging isn't a safety issue, but it can make windows appear unclean and make them hard to see through.
Water and humidity can also cause window seals to deteriorate by causing rot on the frame or causing mold growth. If you experience these problems you're likely to find that your window seals are in need of replacement.
Higher energy bills are another sign that the window seals are beginning to fail. If your window seals have been damaged the heating and cooling systems will have to perform more efficiently to keep your family members and you comfortable. This could cause higher utility bills.
It could also be becoming harder to shut or open your windows. This is a sign that the window seals have become stiff and not opening or closing properly. It is crucial to get this problem fixed before it gets out of hand or your windows won't be as efficient in energy as they could be.
Follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer to extend the lifespan of the window seals. This includes cleaning them regularly with mild detergent or another approved cleaning agent and ensuring that they are free from dirt and debris. Avoid using heat guns and chemical strippers to clean your windows. They are able to degrade the sealant.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, modern triple-pane and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space and then sealed completely around the edges to keep out humidity. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton to further limit the transfer of cold or heat out the window. These kinds of windows are also referred to as insulated glass units (IGUs).
Call a professional if you notice any signs of broken seals or condensation. They can evaluate the situation to determine the best course of action. Ignoring the issue will only cause more damage which will result in increased energy costs and more noticeable impact on your home's comfort.
The most cost-effective option is to replace only the IGU, and keep the frame you have. This is especially beneficial in the event that your current frame is in good condition and has a higher R rating than your previous windows. You can retain a significant amount of insulation efficiency.
However, if your current frame is in a poor state or outdated and has other damages to its exterior, a full window replacement may be your best choice for optimal energy efficiency and security. This kind of repair can be done quickly and easily by a professional, and can improve the appearance of your home while making sure that the window's insulation properties are restored.
If your window is covered by warranty the manufacturer or installer may be willing to exchange or repair the damaged IGU for no cost. If you're unsure, check the paperwork for your window or call the installer to find out whether it is possible.
Installation
Window seals play a vital role in keeping drafts away and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. Not only is it vital to repair a damaged seal as soon as you notice it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid future problems.
Window maintenance is a continuous procedure that involves regularly checking for gaps and cracks and then re-caulking if needed and cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the window area every year to limit the amount of moisture and temperature affects the seals on your windows. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been settling since their original installation.
Performing regular window maintenance also helps you identify problems before they become an issue with the seal, so you can make an appointment with a professional for a repair when required. If you notice condensation on the window panes, it could be a sign that the frame and glass is not sealed properly. This could lead to poor air quality indoors. If you hear a tap sound when you press the window, it could be a sign that you have to fix the window.
The window seal could break if the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen if your pets or children accidentally smash the window with a broom, or if harsh cleaning products like paint strippers are applied too close to windows. This 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.
If replacement upvc door seal are older and still covered by warranty, a repair or replacement is usually the best option for a damaged seal. This will not only ensure that your window is replaced or repaired quickly but could provide you with the chance to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, such as wood or fiberglass.
If you have an insulated glass unit (IGU) that has broken hiring a professional to replace it is typically your most cost-effective and long-term solution. It is worth noting, however that a lot of modern windows come with removable IGUs that contain gas that is used to insulate, allowing you to replace just the glass unit rather than the entire frame and window.