17 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Sealed Window Repair
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. It also affects the insulation capability of your home. It can cause distorted views through the glass panes.
Defrogging can help temporarily fix the problem, but the best solution is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This should be handled by a professional window manufacturer to ensure that the replacement is done correctly.
Contraction and Expansion
Over time, the seals in dual pane windows break down due to contraction and expansion of the spacer separating the glass. This is due to the cycles of temperature that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands when the sun heats it, the seal is put under pressure. When the glass cools during night, the seal on the window shrinks. These constant expansion and contractions could cause a crack in the window seal permitting humidity to enter the window, causing fog between the glass panes. The inert gases like argon that are trapped between panes of glass can also escape through this crack in the seal. This greatly reduces the insulation value of the window.
Other indications of a damaged window seal could be visible staining or mold on the edge of a double-pane window. You might also notice an increase in your energy bill or feel drafts coming from the windows. In this time, your window frames could be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a sign that you need to replace the window seal.
It's a difficult and labor-intensive task to replace the seals of a dual paned window. It usually involves removal of the old seal, cleaning the windows, and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to do the IGU replacement yourself however, hiring a professional is highly recommended. This procedure is susceptible to mistakes that can lead to water damage and pest infestation.
A professional can help you find the most appropriate repair solution for your situation and give advice on how to maintain the seal on your window over time. It could be a temporary fix, such as caulking the window frame and the wall, in order to prevent the entry of water and bugs into the home. Or, it could mean replacing the entire IGU with a brand new one that is more durable against weather conditions and damage to the seal. You could also install an entirely new window that has an alternative IGU with a better seal or is more suited to the climate of your home.
replacing window seals
Although window seals are constructed to withstand the harshest conditions, prolonged exposure to elements could eventually cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass in the window to expand and shrink. This puts pressure on the seal over time. This is especially true in houses that are situated in climates with hot summers and cold winters.
Window seals are also susceptible to damage due to extreme weather conditions, high humidity and other environmental factors. Wind specifically can be extremely hard on windows and cause them to shift or loosen over time. This can lead to condensation or fogging when air is trapped between the glass panes. While fogging is not an immediate danger, it can detract from the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to look through.
Additionally, water and humidity can also impact window seals through promoting mold growth or causing rot or corrosion on the frame. If you're experiencing these issues, it's likely that the window seals will need to be replaced.
The higher energy bills are a indication that the window seals are beginning to fail. If your window seals have been damaged, your cooling and heating systems will need to perform more efficiently to keep your family members and you comfortably. This can result in higher utility costs.
It could also be becoming more difficult to close or open your windows. This indicates that the seals on your windows have become stiff and are hindering them from opening or closing properly. It is important to fix this issue before it gets out of hand and your windows won't be as efficient in energy as they should be.
Follow the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer in order to extend the lifespan of the window seals. This means regularly cleaning them with mild detergent or an approved cleaning agent, and keeping them free of dirt and debris. It is also crucial to avoid using chemical strippers or heat guns on your windows as these can easily break the sealant material.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's modern triple-pane 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 gases such as Krypton and argon, which reduces the transfer of heat and cold outside the window. These windows are also referred to as IGUs, or insulated glass units (IGUs).
Consult a professional if find any indications of broken seals or condensation. They can assess the situation and determine the best course of action. If you ignore the issue, it will cause more damage which will result in increased energy costs and more visible impact on your home's comfort.
The most economical option is to replace your IGU and keep the current window 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.
However, if the current frame is in a poor state or has a long-lasting issue and is causing exterior damage, full window replacement might be the most effective option for optimal energy efficiency and protection. This type of repair can be done quickly and easily by a professional, enhancing the appearance of your home while restoring the window's insulation properties.
If your window is still covered by warranty the manufacturer or installer may be willing to exchange or repair the damaged IGU at no cost. Check the window's paperwork or contact the original installer to determine whether this is an option in your situation.
Installation
Window seals are essential to stop drafts from entering and maintaining energy efficiency in your home. It's not enough to repair a broken window seal as soon as you notice it, but also perform preventative maintenance that helps to avoid problems in the future.
Window maintenance is a continuous process that involves checking regularly for cracks and gaps and re-caulking when necessary, and cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the area around your windows each year in order to limit how much temperature and moisture affect the seals on your windows. This is particularly crucial for older homes whose foundations have settled since their initial installation.
Regularly checking your windows for damage helps you identify problems before they develop into an issue with the seal, so you can schedule an appointment with a professional to repair the issue when required. If you notice condensation on your window panes, it's a sign that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. Additionally, if you hear a thumping sound when you press your window it's a sign the window is damaged and requires repair.
Physical damage to the frame of the window can also cause a window seal to break. This can happen when your pets or kids accidentally strike the window with a broom, or if harsh cleaning substances like paint strippers are sprayed too close to the windows. It can also occur when windows are constructed with aluminum frames, which don't provide as much insulative value as wood or fiberglass.
A broken seal is best repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered by warranty. This will ensure that your window can be quickly repaired or replaced, and could also provide you with the opportunity to upgrade to a more energy efficient frame like fiberglass or wood.
If you've got a damaged glass insulated unit, it's usually best to seek out a professional who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution. A lot of modern windows come with removable IGUs with gasses that insulate, allowing you to replace the glass unit in place of the entire window.