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.
While defogging your windows can temporarily resolve the issue, a permanent solution involves replacing the glass unit that is insulated (IGU). A professional window company should handle this task to ensure that the replacement is carried out correctly.
Contraction and expansion
As time passes, the seals on dual pane windows break down because of the expansion and contraction of the spacer that separates 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. As the glass cools at night, the seal on the window contracts. These constant expansion and contractions can cause a break in the window seal allowing humidity to enter the window, causing fog between the glass panes. The crack in the seal allows inert gases such as argon, which get trapped between the window panes to escape. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window.
The presence of stains or mold on the edges of double-pane windows are also indications of a damaged seal. You might also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts around the windows. During this time the window frames may also pull away from the walls or shift. This is a sign that you need to replace the window seal.
Replacing the seals of windows with dual panes is a complex and labor-intensive project that usually requires the removal of the old seal and the new one, and then cleaning both windows, and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to replace the IGU by yourself however, hiring a professional is highly advised. Mistakes during this process can result in water damage, drafts, pest infestations and even more costly repairs later.
A professional can also help you find the most effective repair solution to your situation and can provide guidance on a long-term strategy for keeping your window sealed correctly. This could be a quick solution, such as caulking the gap between the frame of the window and the wall to prevent bugs and water from entering your home, or it may be necessary to replace the entire window with a new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. It could also involve the installation of the window using an alternative IGU with a higher quality seal or is better appropriate to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
While window seals are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, constant exposure to elements could eventually cause them to fail. The most frequent causes are extreme temperature changes that cause the glass to expand and contract, placing pressure on the window seal over time. This is especially true in homes located in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
Window seals are also prone to damage due to extreme weather conditions, high humidity and other environmental factors. Wind can be particularly rough on windows, causing them to shift with time. In this case air can get infiltrated between the glass panes of an insulating window, which can cause fogging or condensation. Fogging isn't a safety issue, but it could make windows appear unclean and make them difficult to see through.
The humidity and water can cause window seals to degrade by causing rot on the frame or causing mold growth. If you are experiencing these issues, it's likely that the window seals need to be replaced.
A rise in energy costs is another indication that the window seals have started to fail. If your window seals have been damaged the cooling and heating systems will need to be more efficient to keep your family members and you at ease. This could cause higher utility bills.
You might also notice that it is 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 or closing correctly. repairmywindowsanddoors is crucial to address this issue before it gets out of hand and your windows will not be as efficient as they should be.
You can prolong the life of your window seals by observing the maintenance instructions of the manufacturer. It is essential to clean them regularly with 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. These can easily degrade the sealant.
Damage
Modern triple and double pane windows are different from the old single-paned windows. They have glass panes that are separated by an air space, and then completely sealed around the edges. This keeps moisture out. The spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton in order to reduce the transfer of heat or cold outside the window. These types of windows are also known as Insulated Glass Units (IGUs).
Contact a professional if find any indications of broken seals or condensation. They will assess the situation and determine the best way to proceed. If you ignore the issue, it will cause more damage and will result in more energy costs and a more noticeable impact on the comfort of your home.
The most cost-effective option is to just replace the IGU, and keep the frame you have. This is especially advantageous if the current frame is still in good shape and has 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 damages and is in poor condition, you may be considering a full window replacement to ensure maximum energy efficiency and security. A professional can carry out this type of repair easily and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties, while also improving the appearance of your home.
If your window is still under warranty, a manufacturer or installer may be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for free. If you are unsure about this, look up the warranty for your window, or contact the installer to determine whether it is possible.
Installation
Window seals play a vital role in keeping drafts away and ensuring that your home is energy efficient. It's not only important to fix a damaged window seal immediately you notice it, but also to conduct preventative maintenance that will help to avoid problems in the future.
Window maintenance is an ongoing process that includes regularly checking for cracks and gaps and then re-caulking if required, and cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the window area each year in order to limit the extent to which moisture and temperature affects the window seals. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been settling since the time of their initial installation.
Conducting regular maintenance on your windows helps you spot any issues before they become an unsound seal, and you can make an appointment with an appointment with a specialist to make repairs when it is required. If you notice condensation between your window panes, it's an indication that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tapping sound when you press your window, it could be a sign that you need to repair the window.
A window seal can also break when the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen when your children or pets accidentally smash a window using a broom, or when harsh cleaning products, such as paint strippers were applied too close to windows. It can also occur when windows are constructed with aluminum frames that don't provide the same insulation as wood or fiberglass.
A damaged seal should be replaced or repaired if your windows are still under warranty. This will not only ensure that your window is repaired or replaced swiftly, but it may provide you with the chance to upgrade to a more energy-efficient frame material, like wood or fiberglass.
If you have a broken glass unit that is insulated, it's usually best to hire an expert who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective way to go. Many modern windows have removable IGUs containing the insulating gases, which allows you to replace the glass unit in place of the entire window.