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Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal Condensation on windows that can't be cleaned away is a clear indication that the window seal has been damaged. It can also cause distortions in the view through the glass, and can affect the insulation of your home. While defogging your windows may temporarily solve the problem, a permanent solution involves replacing the insulated glass unit (IGU). A professional window service should handle this to ensure that the replacement process is completed correctly. Expansion and Contraction Over time, seals in double pane windows wear away due to contraction and expansion of the spacer separating the glass. This is due to the cycles in temperature that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands as the sun heats it, the seal is put under pressure. As the glass cools at night and the seal around the window contracts. These constant expansions and contractions could cause cracks in the seal of the window. This allows humidity to enter and create fog between glass panes. The inert gases like argon that are trapped between panes of glass also escape through this break in the seal. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window. Other indications of a damaged window seal include visible staining or mold along the edge of a double-paned window. You might also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts in the vicinity of the windows. During this process windows can be able to move or pull away from the wall. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced. Replacing the seals in a dual pane window is a complicated 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. While it is possible to replace the IGU by yourself however, hiring a professional is highly recommended. This process is prone to errors that could cause the destruction of your home and pests. A professional can assist you in finding the most appropriate repair solution for your situation and give advice on how to keep the seal of your window over time. This could be a quick solution, such as sealing the gap between the window frame and the wall to stop water and bugs from entering your home, or it may require replacing the entire window with a brand new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. It could also involve installing a new window with a different IGU that has a better quality seal or is more appropriate to the climate of your home. Weather Conditions Window seals are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. However, constant exposure can cause them to break. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass inside the window to expand and contract. This causes pressure on the seal over time. This is especially the case for homes in areas which experience hot summers as well as freezing winters. High humidity, storms, and other environmental factors can also affect window seals. Wind can be especially tough on windows and cause them to shift with time. When this happens air can enter the glass panes in an insulating window, leading to fogging or condensation. While fogging isn't a safety hazard but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to see through. In addition, humidity and water can cause window seals' to wear away by causing rot on the frame or causing mold growth. If you experience these problems, it's likely that your window seals need replacement. Another sign that seals on windows are beginning to fail is higher energy bills. If your window seals are damaged the cooling and heating systems will need to work harder to keep your family members and you comfortable. This could result in higher energy costs. It could also be becoming more difficult to open or close your windows. This could be a sign that the seal of your window has become stiff, 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. Follow the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer in order to prolong the life of the window seals. It is important to wash them regularly using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and to keep them free of dirt and debris. Avoid using view website or chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily degrade the sealant. Damage Modern triple and double pane windows are different from the old single-paned windows. They feature glass panes separated by an air space, and then completely sealed around the edges. This keeps humidity out. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton in order to limit the transfer of cold or heat outside the window. These windows are also known as insulated glass units (IGUs). Consult a professional if notice any signs of broken seals or condensation. They will assess the situation to determine the best option for you. If you ignore this issue, it will make it worse and will result in a higher energy bill and a negative impact on the comfort of your home. The most cost-effective option is to only replace the IGU and keep the frame that you have. This is especially beneficial when the frame you have is in good condition and offers more R-value than your 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 might think about a complete window replacement to ensure maximum energy efficiency and security. A professional can perform this kind of repair easily and quickly to restore your window's insulating properties, while improving the appearance of your home. If your window is under warranty, the manufacturer or installer might be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for free. Check the window's paperwork or contact the original installer to determine if this is a possibility in your case. Installation Window seals play a crucial role in keeping drafts out and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It is not just crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon as you spot it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid any future issues. Window maintenance is a continuous process that involves checking regularly for cracks and gaps, re-caulking as needed and cleaning. Re-caulk your window seals once each year to limit the effects of temperature and moisture. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been shifting since their original installation. Regular window maintenance can aid in identifying any issues before they become an issue. This lets you plan a repair with a professional your windows as needed. If you notice condensation between window panes it could be a sign that your frame and glass is not properly sealed. This could result in poor air quality indoors. If you hear a thumping sound when you press on the window, it could mean that you should repair the window. A window seal can also break in the event that the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen if your kids or pets accidentally strike the window with a broom or if harsh cleaning materials such as paint strippers are placed too close to windows. This could be a problem if you've got aluminum frames installed on your windows, which do not offer the same amount of insulation as fiberglass or wood. If your windows are older and still under warranty, a repair or replacement is often the best option for a damaged seal. 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 such as fiberglass or wood. In the case of an insulated glass unit (IGU) which is damaged and requires professional help to replace it is generally the most cost-effective and long-term solution. Modern windows often have removable IGUs with gases that are insulating, which allow you to replace the glass unit in place of the entire window.