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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. It also affects the insulating capability of your home. It can cause distorted views through the glass panes. While defogging your windows may temporarily solve the issue, 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 in a timely manner. Contraction and Expansion Over time, the seals in double pane windows wear away due to expansion and contraction of the spacer that separates the glass. This occurs because of the temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the day. When the sun warms the glass, it expands, putting pressure on the window seal. When the glass cools during night, the seal on the window shrinks. These constant contractions and expansions can result in a break in the window seal allowing humidity to enter the window, creating fog between the glass panes. This crack in the seal can allow inert gases, such as argon, which are trapped between the window panes to escape. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window. Mold or stains on the edges of double-pane windows are also signs of a broken seal. There could be an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts around the windows. During this time, your window frames could be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a sign you need to replace the window seal. It is a complex and labor-intensive job to replace the seals of a dual paned window. This typically involves taking off the old seal, cleaning the windows, and then replacing the IGU. While it is possible to perform the IGU replacement yourself, hiring a professional comes highly recommended. This process is susceptible to errors that can result in the destruction of your home and pests. A professional can help you find the best repair solution for your particular situation and provide advice on how to keep the seal on your window over time. It could be a temporary fix, such as caulking between the window frame and the wall, in order to prevent insects and water from getting into the home. Or it could involve replacing the entire IGU with a brand new one that is more durable against weather conditions and damage to the seal. You can also install a new window that uses a different IGU with more seals or is more suited to the climate of your home. Weather Conditions Window seals are made to withstand the harshest weather conditions. However, exposure to constant pressure can cause them to break. Extreme temperature fluctuations 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 situated in climates where there are hot summers and freezing winters. Storms, high humidity, and other environmental elements can also damage window seals. Wind can be particularly hard on windows, causing them to shift with time. This can cause fogging or condensation when air gets trapped between the glass panes. While fogging isn't an immediate danger however 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 degrade through causing rot to the frame or mold growth. If you're experiencing these issues, it's likely that the window seals need to be replaced. The higher energy bills are a indicator that the window seals have begun to fail. If your window seals have been damaged then your heating and cooling systems will have to perform more efficiently to keep your family members and you at ease. This can result in higher energy costs. You may also notice that it is getting more difficult to open or close your windows. This indicates that the window seals have become stiff, and are preventing them from closing or opening properly. This issue must be taken care of before it becomes a major issue, otherwise your windows won't be as energy-efficient as they should. Follow the maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer to extend the lifespan of the window seals. It is essential to regularly clean them using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents and keep them free of dirt and other debris. It is also essential to stay clear of using heat guns or chemical strippers on your windows as these can easily break the sealant material. Damage Modern triple and double pane windows differ from the single-paned windows of the past. They have glass panes separated by air spaces and then sealed around the edges. This keeps the humidity out. The spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas such as Krypton or argon to reduce the transfer of cold or heat outside the window. These types of windows are also referred to as insulated glass units (IGUs). Contact a professional if notice any signs of broken seals or condensation. They can assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Doing nothing will only cause more damage, leading to more energy costs and a more obvious impact on the comfort of your home. Generally, the most affordable option is to replace the IGU, while preserving the existing window frame. This is especially advantageous in the event that the frame is in good condition and has more R-value than your original windows, allowing you to retain a large amount of insulating efficiency. If the frame is damaged, outdated or has any other exterior damage that is in poor condition, you might think about a complete window replacement for maximum energy efficiency and protection. A professional can complete this type of repair easily and quickly, restoring your window's insulating properties while also improving your home's appearance. If your window is still covered by warranty the installer or manufacturer may be willing to exchange or repair the damaged IGU for no cost. If you're unsure, check the paperwork for your window or contact the installer to see if 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 just important to repair a damaged window seal when you notice it, but also do preventative maintenance to help prevent issues in the future. Window maintenance is an ongoing procedure that involves regularly checking for cracks and gaps and then re-caulking if required, and cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the area around your windows once per year to limit the extent to which humidity and temperature affect the window seals. This is particularly crucial for older homes whose foundations have shifted since their initial installation. Regular window maintenance will also help you identify any problems before they become problematic. This will allow you to plan a repair with a professional your windows as required. If you notice condensation on your window panes, it's a sign 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 on your window, it could be a sign you need to repair the window. A window seal can also break if the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen when your pets or children accidentally hit a window with a broom or when harsh cleaning products such as paint strippers were sprayed too close to windows. It could also happen when windows are fitted with aluminum frames, which don't provide as much insulative value as wood or fiberglass. If your windows are older and still under warranty repairs or replacement is usually the best option for a damaged seal. This will ensure that your window is swiftly repaired or replaced, and could also provide you with the chance to upgrade your window to a more energy efficient frame such as wood or fiberglass. If you find an insulated glass unit (IGU) which is damaged, hiring a professional to replace it is generally the most cost-effective, long-term and economical solution. Modern windows often have removable IGUs with insulating gases, which allows you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.