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 window seal is damaged. This can cause distortions in the view through the glass, and can affect the insulation of your home.

While defogging your windows can temporarily solve the problem, a permanent solution involves replacing the insulated glass unit (IGU). A professional window company should handle this task to ensure that the replacement process is completed properly.

Expansion & Contraction

Over time, seals in double pane windows wear away because of the expansion and contraction of the spacer that separates the glass. This is due to the temperature cycles that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats up the glass, it expands, putting pressure on the window seal. In the evening, as the glass cools down it shrinks the window seal. These constant contractions and expansions can cause a break in the window seal which allows humidity to get into the window, creating fog between the glass panes. The inert gases, like argon that are trapped between the panes of glass also escape through this break in the seal. This significantly reduces the insulating value of the window.

Other signs of a broken window seal are visible staining or mold along the edges of a double-paned window. There could be an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts around the windows. In this time, your window frames could be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced.

Replacing the seals of 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, and then cleaning both windows, and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to replace the IGU on your own but hiring a professional strongly advised. Incorrect decisions during this process could lead to drafts, water damage, pest infestations and even more costly repairs later.

A professional can assist you in finding the right repair double glazing seals solution for your particular situation and offer suggestions on how to keep the seal of your window over time. This could involve a short-term fix, such as caulking the gap between the frame and the wall to block bugs and water 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. It could also involve the installation of an entirely new window that has a different IGU that has a higher quality seal or is better suitable for your home's climate.

Weather Conditions

Window seals are made to withstand the harshest weather conditions, constant exposure to the elements can eventually cause them to fail. The most frequent causes are extreme temperature changes, which can cause the glass to expand and contract, putting pressure on the window seal over time. This is especially true for homes in areas which experience hot summers as well as frigid winters.

Window seals are also prone to damage due to high humidity, storms and other environmental elements. Wind can be particularly rough on windows and cause them to shift over time. In this case air can enter the glass panes of an insulation window, leading to condensation or fogging. Fogging is not a security 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 through causing rot to the frame or mold growth. If you're experiencing any of these issues you're likely to find that your window thermal seal repair cost seals are in need of replacement.

Another indication that seals on windows are beginning to fail is higher energy bills. If your window seals are damaged then your heating and cooling systems will have to be more efficient to keep you and your family comfortably. This could result in higher energy costs.

It could also be getting more difficult to open or close your windows. This is a sign that the window seals have become stiff, and are hindering them from opening and closing correctly. This problem must be addressed before it becomes a major problem or your windows won't be as energy efficient as they ought to be.

You can extend the lifespan of your window seals by following the maintenance instructions of the manufacturer. It is important to regularly clean them using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and to keep them free of debris and dirt. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. They can easily degrade the sealant.

Damage

Modern double- and triple pane windows differ from the old single-paned windows. They have glass panes that are separated by air spaces, and then completely sealed window unit replacement around the edges. This keeps humidity out. The spaces between the glass panels are typically filled with inert gasses like Krypton and argon, which helps to reduce the transfer of heat and cold outside the window. These windows are also known as insulated glass units (IGUs).

If you notice condensation or other signs of broken window seals, you should to contact a professional to evaluate the situation and decide the right method of action. Doing nothing will only make the problem worse which will result in increased energy costs and more obvious impact on your home's comfort.

Generally speaking, the cheapest alternative is to replace the IGU while keeping the existing window frame. This is especially beneficial in the event that your current frame is in good shape and has a higher R rating than your previous windows. You can retain a significant amount of insulation 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 choice for optimal energy efficiency and security. A professional can carry out this type of repair effortlessly and quickly, restoring your window's insulating properties, while also improving the appearance of your home.

If your window is under warranty, a manufacturer or installer might be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. Review the window's warranty or contact the original installer to determine if this is a possibility in your situation.

Installation

Window seals play an essential function in keeping drafts out and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It's not just important to fix a damaged window seal immediately you notice it, but to also perform preventative maintenance that helps to avoid problems in the future.

Window maintenance is a continuous process that involves checking regularly for gaps and cracks and re-caulking when needed, and cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the window area every year to limit how much moisture and temperature affects the seals on your windows. This is especially important for older homes that have been shifting since the time of their initial installation.

Performing regular window maintenance also helps you spot any issues before they develop into a broken seal, so you can schedule an appointment with a professional to repair the issue when it is required. If you notice condensation between your window panes, it's a sign that the glass and frame aren't sealed window unit replacement properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. Additionally, if you hear a tapping sound when you press on your window it's a sign the window is sagging and in need of repair.

Physical damage to the frame of a window could also cause a window patio door seal replacement to break. This could happen if your pets or children accidentally hit the window with a broom or if harsh cleaning materials such as paint strippers are placed too close to windows. It can also occur when windows are fitted with aluminum frames, which do not provide the same insulation as wood or fiberglass.

If your windows are newer and still covered by warranty Repair or replacement sealed units is often the best option for a damaged seal. This will ensure that your window is swiftly repaired or replaced, and could also give you the chance to upgrade to a more energy-efficient frame such as fiberglass or wood.

If you find an insulated glass unit (IGU) that is broken, hiring a professional to replace it is generally the most cost-effective, long-term and economical solution. A lot of modern windows come with removable IGUs containing the gasses that insulate, allowing you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.