Sealed Window Repair: It's Not As Expensive As You Think
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. This can cause distortions in the view through the glass, and can affect the insulation of your home.
Defrogging can help temporarily fix the issue however, the best option is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This should be handled by a professional window manufacturer to ensure the replacement is done correctly.
Contraction and Expansion
The seals on windows with dual panes can become damaged as time passes due to 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 glass expands when the sun heats it the seal is placed under pressure. As the glass cools down at night, the seal on the window contracts. The constant contractions and expansions could cause cracks in the seal of the window. This allows humidity to get in, creating fog between glass panes. The inert gases like argon that are trapped between the panes of windows also escape through this break in the seal. This affects the insulation of the window.
The presence of stains or mold along the edges of double-pane windows are also signs of a broken seal. You may also notice a rise in your energy bills or feel drafts in the windows. In this process the window frames could be able to move or pull away from the wall. 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 involves removing the old seal and the new one, cleaning both of the windows and replacing the IGU. While it is possible to do the IGU replacement yourself, hiring a professional comes highly recommended. Mistakes during this process can lead to drafts, water damage pest infestation and even more expensive repairs later on.
A professional will also assist you in determining the most effective repair solution for your particular situation and can provide guidance on a long term plan to keep your window sealed correctly. It could be a temporary fix such as caulking between the window frame and the wall, to stop the entry of water and bugs into the home. Or it could involve 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 that has 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. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the glass within the window to expand and shrink. This can put pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly true for homes situated in climates where there are hot summers and cold winters.
Storms, high humidity, and other environmental factors can also cause damage to window seals. Wind can be particularly rough on windows and cause them to shift with time. This can cause fogging or condensation if air gets trapped between glass panes. While fogging is not an immediate danger but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to see through.
In addition, humidity and water can also affect window seals by promoting mold growth or causing rot or corrosion on the frame. If you're experiencing these issues, it's likely that your window seals require replacement.
Another indication that window seals are starting to fail is the increase in energy bills. The cooling and heating systems will be forced to be more efficient to keep your home cool if the seals on your windows are damaged, which will result in higher utility costs for you and your family.
You may be noticing that it's becoming more difficult to open and close your windows. This indicates that the seals in your windows have become stiff and are hindering them from opening and closing correctly. It is essential to fix this issue before it becomes a major issue and your windows will not be as efficient as they should be.
You can extend the life of your window seals by following the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance. It is crucial to regularly clean them using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and keep them free of debris and dirt. It's also important to avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers on your windows as these can easily break the sealant material.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's triple-pane and double-pane windows are made of glass that is separated by air space, and then completely sealed around the edges to keep out humidity. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas, such as Krypton or argon to reduce transfer of cold or heat outside the window. These kinds of windows are also referred to as Insulated Glass Units (IGUs).
Call a professional if you find any indications of broken seals or condensation. They can evaluate the situation and determine the best option for you. If you ignore this issue, it will increase the severity of the issue which will result in higher energy costs and an impact on the comfort of your home.
Generally, the most affordable option is to replace the IGU and keep the current window frame. This is particularly beneficial in the event that your current frame is in good condition and has a higher R rating than the original windows. It is possible to keep the majority of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged, outdated or has any other exterior damage that is in poor condition, you might be considering a full window replacement for maximum energy efficiency and security. A professional can carry out this type of repair effortlessly and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties and improving the appearance of your home.
If your window is under warranty, a manufacturer or installer may be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for free. If you're not sure you are, make sure to check the documentation for your window, or contact the installer to find out if it is possible.
Installation
Window seals play a crucial role in keeping drafts away and ensuring that your home is energy efficient. Not only is it vital to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it but also to perform preventative maintenance to avoid any future issues.
Window maintenance is a continuous procedure that involves checking for cracks, gaps and re-caulking when needed, as well as cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the window area every year to limit the amount of temperature and moisture affect the seals on your windows. This is particularly crucial for older homes whose foundations have shifted since their first installation.
Regularly checking your windows for damage helps you identify problems before they become an issue with the seal, so you can arrange an appointment with a professional to repair the issue when needed. If you see condensation between the window panes, it's a sign that the glass and frame aren't sealed properly, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. In addition, if you can hear a thumping sound when you push on your window it's a sign the window is sagging and in need of repair.
A window seal can also break in the event that the frame of the window is damaged. This could occur when your pets or children accidentally strike a window with the broom or cleaning products, such as paint strippers were sprayed too close to windows. This can also happen if you have aluminum frames on your windows, which don't provide as much insulation as wood or fiberglass.
A damaged seal should be repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered under warranty. This will not only ensure that your window is replaced or repaired quickly, but it may also give you the chance to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, like fiberglass or wood.
If window gasket replacement have a broken glass insulated unit is usually recommended to find an expert who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective way to go. It is worth noting, however that a lot of modern windows feature removable IGUs which contain insulating gas which allows you to replace only the glass unit rather than the entire window and frame.