Sealed Window Repair It's Not As Hard As You Think
Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The condensation on windows that isn't able to be wiped away is a clear indication that the seal on your window has been damaged. This can also cause distortions in the view through the glass and affect the insulation of your home.
Defogging may temporarily solve 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 that the replacement is carried out correctly.
Expansion & Contraction
The seals on windows with dual panes can be damaged in time because of the expansion and contraction of spacers that separate the glass. This is due to the cycles of temperature that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats the glass, it expands putting pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down at night and the seal around the window shrinks. These constant expansions and contractions may cause a crack in the seal of the window. This allows humidity in, creating fog between glass panes. This crack in the seal can allow inert gases, such as the argon gas, which is trapped between the window panes to escape. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window.
Other indicators of a broken window seal are visible mold or staining 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. At this point the window frames may be pulled away from the walls or shift. This is a sign that you must replace the window seal.
Replacing the seals of windows with dual panes is a complicated and labor-intensive project that typically requires removing both the old seal as well as the new one, then cleaning both windows and then replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to replace the IGU by yourself however, hiring a professional is strongly recommended. Making a mistake during this process could lead to drafts, water damage pest infestation and even more expensive repairs later on.
A professional will also assist you in determining the best repair solution for your specific situation, and offer suggestions on a long-term strategy for keeping your window sealed correctly. It could be a temporary fix, such as caulking the window frame and the wall, to stop 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 mean installing an entirely new window that has an alternative IGU with a higher quality seal or is better suitable for your home's climate.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are made to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, exposure to constant pressure can cause them to break. The most frequent causes are extreme temperature variations that cause the glass to expand and contract, putting pressure on the window seal over time. This is particularly true for houses that are situated in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
High humidity, storms, and other environmental conditions can also damage window seals. Wind specifically can be very hard on windows, causing them to move or loosen over time. In this case air can enter the glass panes in an insulating window, causing condensation or fogging. While fogging isn't an immediate danger however it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to look through.
In addition, humidity and water can cause window seals to deteriorate through causing rot to the frame or growth of mold. If you are experiencing these issues, it is likely that the window seals need to be replaced.
A rise in energy costs is another indicator that the window seals are beginning to fail. If your window seals have been damaged, your cooling and heating systems will need to work harder to keep your family members and you comfortable. This will result in higher energy costs.
You may also notice that it is getting more difficult to open and close your windows. This is a sign that the seal on your window has become stiff, which is preventing it from properly opening and closing. It is essential to fix this issue before it becomes a major issue and your windows won't be as efficient as they ought to be.
Follow the maintenance tips that are provided by the manufacturer in order to extend the life of the window seals. It is essential to clean them regularly with mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents and to keep them free of dirt and debris. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily cause damage to the sealant.
Damage
In contrast to the single-pane windows of the past, today's double- and triple-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space. They are then completely sealed 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 limit the transfer of cold or heat out the window. These windows are also known as IGUs, or insulated glass units (IGUs).
If you spot condensation or other indications of damaged window seals, it's best to contact a professional to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Ignoring the issue 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 choice is to only replace the IGU and retain the frame you have. This is especially beneficial when your frame is in good shape and has an increased R rating than the original windows. You can keep the majority of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged, old or has any other exterior damages and is in poor condition, you might think about a complete window replacement to ensure the highest energy efficiency and security. This type repair can be accomplished quickly and easily by a professional, improving the appearance of your home and making sure that the window's insulation properties are restored.
If your window is under warranty, a manufacturer or installer may be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. If you're not sure about this, look up the warranty for your window or call the installer to find out whether it is possible.
Installation
Window seals are essential to keep drafts out and maintaining energy efficiency in your home. It's not only important to repair a broken window seal immediately you notice it, but also do preventative maintenance to help to avoid problems in the future.
Window maintenance is a constant procedure that involves checking for cracks, gaps and re-caulking as needed and also cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the window area every year to limit the extent to which humidity and temperature affect the seals on your windows. This is especially important for older homes that have sunk since the initial installation.
Regular window maintenance can assist in identifying any problems before they become a problem. Replacement rubber gutter seals allows you to schedule a professional to repair your windows if required. If you notice condensation between windows, it could be a sign that your frame and glass is not sealed properly. This could lead to poor indoor air quality. If you also hear a tapping sound when you press your window, it's a sign that the window is damaged and requires repair.
The window seal could break if the frame of the window is damaged. This can happen when your pets or children accidentally smash a window using a broom, or when harsh cleaning products such as paint strippers were sprayed too close to windows. It can also occur when windows are fitted with aluminum frames, which don't provide as much insulative value as wood or fiberglass.
If your windows are more recent and still under warranty repairs or replacement is often the best option for a damaged seal. This will not only ensure that your window is replaced or repaired quickly, but it may also offer you an opportunity to upgrade to a more energy efficient frame material, such as fiberglass or wood.
If you find an IGU (IGU) that is broken, hiring a professional to replace it is typically your most cost-effective and long-term solution. It's worth noting, though that many windows feature removable IGUs that contain insulating gas that allows you to replace just the glass unit, not the entire frame and window.