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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 affect the insulation of your home. Defogging may temporarily solve the issue, but the best solution is to replace the IGUs (IGU). This should be handled by a reputable window company to ensure that the replacement is done correctly. Expansion and Contraction Over time, the seals in double pane windows degrade due to expansion and contraction of the spacer that separates the glass. This is due to the cycles of temperature that occur throughout the day. As the glass expands as the sun heats it, the seal is put under pressure. As the glass cools and the window seal shrinks, it expands. These constant expansions and contractions may cause a crack in the seal of the window. This allows humidity to enter, creating fog between glass panes. The inert gases like argon that are trapped between panes of glass are also released through the crack in the seal. This drastically reduces the insulation value of the window. Other indications of a damaged window seal could be visible mold or staining along the edges of a double-pane window. You 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 sign that you need to replace the window seal. Replacing the seals in a dual pane window is a complex and labor-intensive project that usually requires the removal of the old seal and the new one, then cleaning both windows, and replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to do the IGU replacement yourself but hiring a professional is highly recommended. This process is prone to errors that could cause the destruction of your home and pests. A professional can help you find the best repair solution for your particular situation and give advice on how to keep your window's seal over time. This could involve a short-term solution, such as sealing the gap between the frame and the wall to prevent water and bugs from entering your home, or it could involve replacing the entire window with an IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and damage to the seal. You can also put in a new window that uses an alternative IGU with a better seal or is more suitable for the climate of your home. Weather Conditions Window seals are designed to endure harsh weather conditions. However, replacement sealed double glazed units to constant pressure can cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass within the window to expand and shrink. This puts pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly true for homes situated in climates that have hot summers and cold winters. Window seals are also prone to damage from high humidity, storms and other environmental factors. Wind can be particularly rough on windows, causing them to shift over time. In this case air can get infiltrated between the glass panes of an insulating window, which can cause condensation or fogging. Fogging is not a security issue, but it can make your windows look bad and make them hard to see through. Additionally, humidity and water can influence window seals by encouraging mold growth or causing corrosion or rot on the frame. If you're experiencing these problems, it's likely that the window seals need to be replaced. Another sign that window seals are beginning to fail is higher energy bills. If your window seals have been damaged, your heating and cooling systems will have to work harder to keep your family members and you comfortable. This will result in higher utility costs. You may be noticing that it's becoming more difficult to open and close your windows. This indicates that the seals on your windows have become stiff, and are not opening and closing properly. It is important to fix this issue before it gets out of hand and your windows will not be as efficient as they should be. You can prolong the life of your window seals by observing the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance. This means regularly cleaning them with a mild detergent or other approved cleaning agent and ensuring that they are free from dirt and debris. It's also important to avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers on your windows as they can break the sealant material. Damage Unlike the single-pane windows of the past, today's triple-pane and double-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 panels are often filled with inert gasses like Krypton and argon. This reduces the transfer of cold and heat outside the window. These windows are also known as Insulated Glass Units (IGUs). If you notice condensation or other indications of damaged window seals, it's recommended to call a professional to evaluate the situation and decide the best way to proceed. If you ignore this issue, it will increase the severity of the issue, resulting in higher energy bills and an impact on the comfort of your home. The most economical option is to replace your IGU while keeping the existing window frame. This is especially beneficial when the frame you have is in good condition and has a higher R-rating than the original windows, allowing you to retain an impressive amount of insulation efficiency. However, if the current frame is in a poor state or has a long-lasting issue and is causing damages to its exterior, a full window replacement might be the best choice for optimal energy efficiency and security. A professional can perform this type of repair easily and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties, while also improving your home's appearance. If your window is covered by warranty the manufacturer or installer may be willing to exchange or repair the damaged IGU at no cost. Examine the window's documentation or contact the original installer to find out whether this is a possibility in your situation. Installation Window seals are essential to keep drafts out and ensuring efficiency of energy in your home. Not only is it crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it, but also to carry out preventative maintenance to avoid future issues. Window maintenance is a continual process that involves examining for cracks, gaps and re-caulking as needed, as well as cleaning. It is recommended that you caulk the area around your windows each year in order to limit how much moisture and temperature affects the window seals. This is particularly critical for older homes that have sunk since the time of their initial installation. Regular window maintenance can help you identify any problems before they become problematic. This lets you plan a repair with a professional your windows if required. If you notice condensation between window panes, it could indicate that your frame and glass is not sealed properly. This can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tap sound when you press on the window, it could mean that you need to repair the window. A window seal may also break if the frame of the window is damaged. This could occur when your pets or children accidentally hit a window with a broom or when harsh cleaning products like paint strippers were sprayed too close to windows. It can also happen when windows are constructed with aluminum frames, which do not offer the same insulation as fiberglass or wood. A broken seal is best repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered by warranty. This will not only ensure that your window is repaired or replaced quickly however, it could also give you the chance to upgrade to a more energy-efficient frame material, like fiberglass or wood. If you've got a damaged insulated glass unit it is recommended to seek out an expert who can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution. It is worth noting, however that a lot of modern windows come with removable IGUs that contain gas that is used to insulate that allows you to replace just the glass unit instead of the entire window and frame.