The 10 Most Terrifying Things About 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 the window seal is damaged. It also affects the insulating capability of your home. It could cause distortion of views through the glass panes.
Defrogging can help temporarily fix the issue, but the best solution is to replace the insulated glass units (IGU). This is best handled by a reputable window company to ensure the replacement is done correctly.
Expansion and Contraction
The seals on windows with dual panes can break down in time because of the expansion and contraction of the spacers that separate the glass. This is due to the cycles of temperature that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats up the glass, it expands and puts pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down and the window seal shrinks, it expands. 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 crack in the seal permits inert gases such as the argon gas, which is trapped between window panes to escape. This significantly reduces the insulating value of the window.
Other signs of a broken window seal include visible staining or mold along the edge of a double-pane window. You might be noticing a rise in your energy bill or feel drafts around the windows. In this process, your window frames may also shift or pull away from the wall. This is a clear indication that the window seal needs to be replaced.
It's a complicated and labor-intensive project to replace the seals of a dual paned window. This usually involves taking off the old seal and cleaning the windows and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to complete the IGU replacement yourself but hiring a professional is highly recommended. Making a mistake during this process could lead to drafts, water damage, pest infestations, and more expensive repairs later on.
A professional will also assist you in determining the most effective repair solution for your specific situation and can provide guidance on a long-term plan for keeping your window sealed properly. This could involve a short-term solution, like caulking the gap between the frame and the wall to block water and bugs from entering your home, or it could involve replacing the entire window with a new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. You can also put in the window using an alternative IGU with a better seal or is more suitable for the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
Window seals are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. However, prolonged exposure can cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass inside the window to expand and shrink. This puts pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly true for houses that are situated in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
Storms, high humidity and other environmental factors can also damage window seals. Wind, in particular can be extremely hard on windows which can cause them to move or become loose over time. If this happens, air can infiltrate between the glass panes in an insulating window, causing condensation or fogging. While fogging isn't a danger to your safety but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to see through.
The humidity and water can cause window seals to degrade through causing rot to the frame or growth of mold. If you're experiencing these issues it's likely that your window seals need replacement.
Another indication that window seals are beginning to fail is a rise in energy bills. If your window seals have been damaged then your cooling and heating systems will have to be more efficient to keep you and your family comfortably. This can result in higher utility costs.
You might be noticing that it's becoming harder to open or close your windows. This is a sign that the window seals have become stiff, and are preventing them from closing or opening properly. It is crucial to fix this issue before it becomes a major issue or your windows will not be as energy efficient as they ought to be.
Follow the maintenance tips given by the manufacturer to extend the life of the window seals. This includes regularly cleaning them with mild detergent or an approved cleaning agent and ensuring that they are free from dirt and debris. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily cause damage to the sealant.
Damage
Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, modern triple- and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space. They are then completely sealed around the edges to keep humidity out. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton to further reduce the transfer of heat or cold outside the window. These windows are also referred to as insulated glass units (IGUs).
Consult a professional if detect any indications of damaged seals or condensation. They can assess the situation to determine the best course of action. If you ignore the issue, it will cause more damage and will result in more energy costs and a more noticeable impact on the comfort of your home.
The most cost-effective option is to only replace the IGU and keep the existing frame. This is particularly beneficial in the event that your current frame is in good condition and has an higher R rating than the original windows. You can retain the majority of insulation efficiency.
If the frame is damaged or outdated or has any other exterior damages and is in poor condition, you may want to consider a full window replacement to ensure maximum energy efficiency and security. This type repair can be accomplished quickly and easily by a professional, improving the appearance of your house while making sure that the window's insulation properties are restored.
If your window is still under warranty, the manufacturer or installer might be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. Review the window's warranty or contact the original installer to determine whether this is a possibility for your particular situation.
Installation
Window seals are essential for keeping drafts at bay and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It is not just vital to repair a damaged seal as soon as you spot it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid future issues.
Window maintenance is a continuous process that involves examining for gaps, cracks and re-caulking when needed and also cleaning. It is recommended to re-caulk the window area 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 where foundations have settled since their first installation.
Regular window maintenance will also aid in identifying any issues before they become an issue. This allows you to plan a repair with a professional your windows if needed. If you notice condensation on the window panes, it could be a sign that your glass and frame is not sealed properly. This could lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tap sound when you press on your window, it could mean that you have to fix the window.
Physical damage to the frame of a window could also cause a window seal to break. This could occur when your children or pets accidentally strike a window with the broom or cleaning products, such as paint strippers were applied too close to windows. Repair My Windows And Doors can also happen if you have aluminum frames on your windows, which do not provide the same insulation as fiberglass or wood.
If your windows are more recent and still under warranty, a repair or replacement is often the best option for a damaged seal. This will not only ensure that 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 an insulated glass unit (IGU) which is damaged and requires professional help to repair it is usually the most cost-effective and long-term solution. A lot of modern windows come with removable IGUs with insulating gases, which allows you to replace the glass unit instead of the entire window.