17 Signs To Know If You Work With Sealed Window Repair
Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The presence of condensation on windows that can't be removed is a sign that 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.
Defogging can temporarily fix the issue however, the best option is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This should be handled by a professional window company to ensure that the replacement is done correctly.
Contraction and expansion
Over time, the seals in double pane windows wear away due to contraction and expansion of the spacer separating the glass. This is due to the temperature cycles that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands as sun heats it the seal is placed under pressure. As the glass cools at night the seal on the window contracts. These constant contractions and expansions could cause a crack in the window seal, which allows humidity to get into the window, causing fog between the glass panes. The crack in the seal permits inert gases like argon, which are trapped between window panes, to escape. This affects the insulation of the window.
Other indications of a damaged window seal include visible staining or mold along the edges of a double-paned window. You may be noticing a rise in your energy bills or feel drafts in the windows. In this time windows can also pull away from the walls or shift. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced.
Replacing the seals in a dual pane window is a fairly complex and labor-intensive project that usually requires the removal of the old seal as well as the new one, and then cleaning both windows and then replacing the IGU. While it is possible to perform the IGU replacement yourself however, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Mistakes during this process can cause water damage, drafts, pest infestation and even more costly repairs later.
A professional can also assist you in finding the best repair solution to your situation, and offer suggestions 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 mean replacing the entire IGU with a new one that is more resistant against weather conditions and seal damage. It could also mean installing the window using a different IGU that has a better quality seal or is better appropriate to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Although window seals are constructed to withstand extreme conditions in the weather, continuous exposure to the elements could eventually cause them to fail. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the glass inside the window to expand and shrink. This causes pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly the case in homes that are located in areas that experience hot summers and cold winters.
Storms, high humidity and other environmental elements can also cause damage to window seals. Wind can be especially tough on windows, causing them to shift over time. This can lead to fogging or condensation if air gets trapped between the glass panes. While fogging isn't an immediate danger, it can detract from the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to view through.
In addition, humidity and water can cause window seals to deteriorate through causing rot to the frame or growth of mold. If you're experiencing these issues you're likely to find that your window seals need replacement.
A rise in energy costs is another indicator that the window seals are beginning to fail. Heating and cooling systems will be forced to work harder to keep your home cool if the window seals are broken, which will result in higher utility bills for you and your family.
You might also notice that it is getting more difficult to open and close your windows. This is an indication that the seals on your windows have become stiff and hindering them from opening and closing properly. It is important to get this problem fixed before it becomes a major issue or your windows will not be as efficient in energy as they should be.
Follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer to prolong the life of the window seals. This means regularly cleaning them with a mild detergent or other approved cleaning agent, and keeping them free of dirt and other debris. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily degrade the sealant.
Damage
Contrary to single-pane windows from the past, today's modern triple- and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space and then completely sealed around the edges to keep humidity out. The spaces between the glass panels are typically filled with inert gases such as argon and krypton, which reduces the transfer of cold and heat outside the window. These kinds of windows are also known as IGUs, or insulated glass units (IGUs).
If you notice condensation or signs of broken window seals, you should to contact a professional to evaluate the situation and decide the best method of action. Ignoring the issue will only cause more damage, leading to higher energy bills and a more visible impact on the comfort of your home.
The most economical alternative is to replace the IGU, while preserving the existing window frame. This is particularly beneficial in the event that your current frame is in good shape and has an higher R rating than your previous windows. It is possible to keep a significant amount of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged or outdated, or has other exterior damage and is in poor condition, you may want to consider a full window replacement for maximum energy efficiency and security. This type of repair can be done quickly and easily by a professional, enhancing the appearance of your home while making sure that the window's insulation properties are restored.
If your window is 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 in your case.
Installation
Window seals play an essential role in keeping drafts away and maintaining home energy efficiency. It is not only important to fix a broken seal as soon as you spot it but also to perform preventative maintenance to avoid any future issues.
Window maintenance is a constant procedure that involves checking for cracks, gaps, and re-caulking if necessary and cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the area around your windows each year in order to limit the amount of moisture and temperature affects the window seals. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been shifting since their original installation.
Regular window maintenance can help you identify any problems before they become a problem. This will allow you to plan a repair with a professional your windows as required. If you see condensation between the window panes, it's an indication that the frame and glass aren't properly sealed, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. In addition, if you can hear a tapping sound when you push on your window, it's a sign that the window is damaged and in need of repair.
Physical damage to the frame of a window could also cause the window seal to break. This can happen when your pets or children accidentally smash a window using the broom or cleaning products like paint strippers were applied too close to windows. This could be a problem if you've got aluminum frames installed on your windows, which do not provide the same insulation as fiberglass or wood.
A broken seal is best replaced or repaired if your windows are still covered under warranty. replacement sealed units will not only guarantee your window is replaced or repaired quickly but could also give you the chance to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, such as fiberglass or wood.
If you have an insulated glass unit (IGU) that is broken, hiring a professional to replace it is typically the most cost-effective, long-term and economical solution. It's worth noting, though that many windows come with removable IGUs that contain the gas that insulates, allowing you to replace only the glass unit, not the entire window and frame.