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Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal The presence of condensation on windows which can't be removed is a sign that the seal on your window is damaged. It also affects the insulating ability of your home and could cause distortion of views through the glass panes. Defogging can temporarily fix the issue however the most effective solution is to replace the insulated glass units (IGU). This should be handled by a professional window manufacturer to ensure the replacement is done correctly. Contraction and Expansion Seals in dual-pane windows can be damaged in time because of the expansion and contraction of spacers that separate the glass. This occurs because of the cycles in temperature that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands as the sun heats it the seal is placed under pressure. When the glass cools during night, the seal on the window shrinks. The constant contraction and expansion can cause a break in the window seal permitting humidity to enter the window, causing fog between the glass panes. This break in the seal can allow inert gases like argon, which get trapped between window panes, to escape. This affects the insulation of the window. Other signs of a broken window seal are visible staining or mold along the edge of a double-pane window. You might also notice an increase in your energy bill or feel drafts in the windows. In this process the window frames could also shift or pull away from the wall. Repair My Windows And Doors is a sign you should replace the window seal. Replacing the seals on windows with dual panes is a fairly complex and labor-intensive project that typically involves removing the old seal as well as the new one, then cleaning both windows, and replacing the IGU. While it is possible to replace the IGU on your own, hiring a professional is strongly recommended. Making a mistake during this process could lead to water damage, drafts, pest infestations and even more costly repairs later on. A professional will also assist you in determining the best repair solution for your particular situation, and offer suggestions on a long-term plan to keep your window sealed properly. It could be a temporary fix such as caulking the window frame, and the wall, to prevent insects and water from getting into the home. Or, it could mean replacing the entire IGU with a new one that is more resilient against weather conditions and seal damage. It could also involve installing an entirely new window that has a different IGU that has a better quality seal or is more suited to your home's climate. Weather Conditions Although window seals are constructed to withstand the harshest conditions, prolonged exposure to the elements could eventually cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass inside the window to expand and contract. This can put pressure on the seal over time. This is especially the case for homes situated in climates which experience hot summers as well as freezing winters. High humidity, storms, and other environmental elements can also damage window seals. Wind specifically can be extremely hard on windows which can cause them to move or become loose over time. If this happens air can enter the glass panes of an insulating window, causing condensation or fogging. While fogging isn't an immediate danger but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to view through. The humidity and water can cause window seals to degrade through causing rot to the frame or causing mold growth. If you are experiencing these issues, it is likely that the window seals will need to be replaced. Another sign that seals on windows are beginning to fail is the increase in energy bills. The cooling and heating systems will need to work harder to keep your home warm when the seals on your windows have failed, which will result in higher utility bills for you and your family. You might be noticing that it's becoming more difficult to open and close your windows. This is an indication that the seals in your windows have become stiff and not closing or opening properly. It is important to address this issue before it becomes a major issue or your windows will not be as efficient in energy as they should be. Follow the maintenance tips given by the manufacturer to extend the lifespan of the window seals. This means regularly cleaning them with a mild detergent or other approved cleaning agent and ensuring they are free of dirt and other debris. Avoid using heat gun and chemical strippers to clean your windows. They are able to cause damage to the sealant. Damage Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's double- and triple-pane windows are made of glass that is separated by air space, and then sealed completely around the edges to keep out humidity. The spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton to further reduce the transfer of cold or heat out the window. These types of windows are also known as insulated glass units (IGUs). If you notice condensation or other signs of broken window seals, you should to call a professional to assess the situation and determine the right method of action. Doing nothing will only cause more damage which will result in higher energy bills 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 in good condition and offers more R-value than your original windows which allows you to keep an impressive amount of insulation efficiency. However, if the current frame is in poor shape or is outdated and has other external damage, a complete window replacement may be your best choice for optimal energy efficiency and protection. A professional can carry out this type of repair effortlessly and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties and also improving your home's appearance. If your window is under warranty, a manufacturer or installer may be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. Examine the window's documentation or contact the original installer to determine if this is a possibility for your particular situation. Installation Window seals are crucial to stop drafts from entering and maintaining energy efficiency in your home. It's not just important to repair a broken window seal when you notice it, but to also 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 re-caulking when needed, and cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the area around your windows each year in order to limit the extent to which temperature and moisture affect the seals on your windows. This is particularly important for older homes whose foundations have shifted since the first installation. Performing regular window maintenance also helps you identify problems before they become a broken seal, so you can schedule a professional for a repair when needed. If you see condensation between the window panes, it's an indication that the glass and frame aren't sealed properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a thumping sound when you press the window, it could mean that you need to repair the window. Damage to the window frame can also cause a window seal to break. This could happen if your children or pets accidentally strike a window with a broom or when harsh cleaning products such as paint strippers were applied too close to windows. This could occur if you have aluminum frames that are installed on your windows, which don't provide as much insulation as fiberglass or wood. A broken seal is best repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered under warranty. This will not only guarantee your window is replaced or repaired quickly however, it could also offer you an opportunity to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, such as fiberglass or wood. If you have a broken insulated glass unit it is recommended to find a professional who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective way to go. Many modern windows have removable IGUs containing the gases that are insulating, which allow you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.