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Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal The presence of condensation on windows which cannot be removed is a sign the window seal is damaged. This can also cause distortions in the view through the glass and impact 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 done correctly. Contraction and Expansion Seals in dual-pane windows can become damaged over time due to 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 sun heats up the glass, it expands and puts pressure on the window seal. At night, as the glass cools and the window seal shrinks, it expands. 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 inert gases such as argon that are trapped between panes of glass also escape through this break in the seal. This significantly reduces the insulating value of the window. Other indications of a damaged window seal include visible staining or mold along the edge of a double-paned window. Repair My Windows And Doors may also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts in the vicinity of the windows. During this time the window frames may also pull away from walls or shift. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced. It's a difficult and labor-intensive job to replace the seals on a dual paned window. It usually involves taking off the old seal, cleaning the windows, and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to complete the IGU replacement yourself however, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Mistakes during this process can cause water damage, drafts, pest infestations and even more expensive repairs later on. A professional can help you find the best repair solution to your problem and provide advice on how to maintain the seal of your window over time. This could be a quick fix, such as caulking the gap between the frame of the window and the wall to block insects and water from getting into your home, or it could be necessary to replace the entire window with a brand new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. It could also mean installing a new window with an alternative IGU with a higher quality seal or is more suited to your home's climate. Weather Conditions Window seals are made to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, exposure to constant pressure can cause them to fail. The most common causes are extreme temperature fluctuations that cause the glass to expand and contract, putting pressure on the window seal over time. This is particularly the case in homes that are located in areas with hot summers and cold winters. High humidity, storms, and other environmental conditions can also affect window seals. Wind can be particularly hard on windows and cause them to shift with time. If this happens air can enter the glass panes in an insulating window, causing condensation or fogging. Fogging is not a safety issue, but it can make windows appear ugly and make them hard to see through. In addition, humidity and water can impact window seals through promoting mold growth or causing corrosion or rot on the frame. 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 a rise in energy bills. The cooling and heating systems will be forced to work harder to keep your home warm in the event that the window seals are broken, which will result in higher utility bills for you and your family. 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 and prevents it from properly opening and closing. It is essential to address this issue before it becomes a major issue, or your windows won't be as efficient as they ought to be. You can prolong the life of your window seals by following the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance. This includes regularly cleaning them with mild detergent or an approved cleaning agent, and keeping them free of dirt and debris. It is also crucial to avoid using chemical strippers or heat guns on your windows as they can easily damage the sealant material. Damage Modern triple and double pane windows are different from the old single-paned windows. They have glass panes that are separated by air spaces and then sealed around the edges. This keeps moisture out. The spaces between the glass panels are usually filled with inert gases such as Krypton and argon, which reduces the transfer of heat and cold outside the window. These types of windows are also known as insulated glass units (IGUs). Consult a professional if find any indications of broken seals or condensation. They can assess the situation to determine the best course of action. In the absence of this, it can increase the severity of the issue and will result in a higher energy bill and a negative impact on the comfort of your home. The most cost-effective choice is to just replace the IGU, and keep the frame you have. This is especially advantageous when the frame you have is in good condition and has an R-value higher than the original windows which allows you to keep the majority of your insulation efficiency. If the frame is damaged or outdated or has any other exterior damage that is in poor condition, you may be considering a full window replacement for maximum energy efficiency and protection. This kind of repair can be done quickly and easily by a professional, enhancing the appearance of your house while making sure that the window's insulation properties are restored. If your window is still covered by warranty, the manufacturer or installer may be willing to replace or repair the damaged IGU at no cost. Review the window's warranty or contact the original installer to find out whether this is an option for your particular situation. Installation Window seals are vital to keep drafts out and ensuring efficiency of energy in your home. It's not enough to repair a damaged window seal when you notice it, but also to conduct preventative maintenance that will help to avoid problems in the future. Window maintenance is a constant process that involves examining for cracks, gaps, and re-caulking if necessary and also cleaning. Re-caulk the window seals at least once each year to limit the effects of temperature and moisture. This is particularly important for older homes whose foundations have settled since their first installation. Performing regular window maintenance also helps you identify problems before they become a broken seal, so you can make an appointment with a professional for a repair when needed. If you notice condensation between the windows, it could indicate that your frame and glass is not properly sealed. This can lead to poor air quality indoors. Additionally, if you hear a thumping sound when you press on your window, it's a sign that the window is loose and needs to be repaired. The window seal could break if 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 substances like paint strippers are sprayed too close to the windows. It can also happen when windows are constructed with aluminum frames that don't provide the same insulation as wood or fiberglass. If your windows are older and still under warranty Repair or replacement is usually the best option for a broken seal. This will ensure that your window is quickly repaired or replaced. It could also give you the chance to upgrade to an energy-efficient frame, such as fiberglass or wood. If you have an insulated glass unit (IGU) that is broken, hiring a professional to replace it is typically your most cost-effective and long-term solution. Many modern windows have removable IGUs that contain the gases that are insulating, which allow you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.