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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 insulation capacity of your home and can cause distorted views through the glass panes. Defogging can temporarily fix the problem, but the best solution is to replace the insulated glass units (IGU). This should be handled by a reputable window company to ensure that the replacement is carried out correctly. Contraction and Expansion Seals in dual-pane windows may be damaged over time because of the expansion and contraction of spacers that separate the glass. This is because of the temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the day. When the sun warms the glass, it expands and puts pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down at night the seal on the window shrinks. These constant expansion and contractions can cause a break in the window seal, permitting humidity to enter the window, creating fog between the glass panes. The inert gases like argon that are trapped between panes of glass can also escape through this crack in the seal. This reduces the insulating properties of the window. The presence of stains or mold along the edge of double-pane windows are other indications of a damaged seal. You might be noticing a rise in your energy bill or feel drafts in the windows. In this process, your window frames may also shift or pull away from the wall. This is a sign you must replace the window seal. Replacing the seals of windows with dual panes is a complex and labor-intensive task that usually requires the removal of the old seal as well as the new one, cleaning both windows, and then replacing the IGU. Although it is possible to replace the IGU on your own, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Making a mistake during this process could result in drafts, water damage, pest infestation and even more expensive repairs later on. A professional can help you find the best repair solution to your problem and offer suggestions on how to keep your window's seal over time. It could be a temporary fix such as caulking between the window frame, and the wall, in order to prevent insects and water from getting 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. You can also install the window using an alternative IGU with an improved seal or more suitable for the climate of your home. Weather Conditions Window seals are made to withstand extreme conditions in the weather, continuous exposure to the elements could eventually cause them to fail. The most frequent causes are extreme temperature fluctuations that can cause the glass to expand and contract, putting pressure on the window seal over time. This is especially the case for homes in areas which experience hot summers as well as cold winters. Window seals are also susceptible to damage from high humidity, storms and other environmental elements. Wind particularly can be very hard on windows and cause them to move or become loose over time. This can lead to fogging or condensation when air is trapped between the glass panes. While fogging is not a danger to your safety but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to look through. Additionally, humidity and water can also affect window seals by promoting mold growth or causing corrosion or rot on the frame. If you are experiencing these issues, it is 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 are damaged then your heating and cooling systems will have to work harder to keep you and your family at ease. This can result in higher energy costs. It could also be becoming harder to close or open your windows. This indicates that the seals in your windows have become stiff, and are hindering them from closing or opening properly. It is crucial to address this issue before it becomes a major issue and your windows will not be as efficient as they should be. Follow the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer to extend the lifespan of the window seals. It is important to regularly clean them using mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents, and keep them free of dirt and other debris. It's also important to avoid using chemical strippers or heat guns on your windows, as these can easily break the sealant material. Damage Modern double- and triple 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 panes are filled with an inert gas, such as Krypton or argon to limit the transfer of cold or heat out the window. These kinds of windows are also referred to as IGUs, or insulated glass units (IGUs). If you notice condensation or other indications of broken window seals, it's recommended to consult a professional evaluate the situation and decide the best way to proceed. Ignoring the issue will only increase the severity of the issue and will result in increased energy costs and more obvious impact on the comfort of your home. The most cost-effective solution is to only replace the IGU, and keep the frame you have. This is especially advantageous when the frame you have is in good condition and has more R-value than the original windows, allowing you to retain the majority of your insulation efficiency. If the frame is damaged or outdated, or has other exterior damage and is in poor condition, you might want to consider a full window replacement for maximum energy efficiency and security. A professional can carry out this type of repair easily and quickly, restoring your window's insulating properties and also improving your home's appearance. If your window is still under warranty, a manufacturer or installer might be willing to repair or replace the damaged IGU for no cost. If replacing sealed units , check the paperwork for your window, or contact the installer to see whether it is possible. Installation Window seals are vital to stop drafts from entering and ensuring efficiency of energy in your home. It's not just important to repair a damaged window seal as soon as you notice it, but also conduct preventative maintenance that will help prevent issues in the future. Window maintenance is a continual process that involves checking for cracks, gaps and re-caulking when needed and also cleaning. It's recommended that you re-caulk the area around your windows each year in order to limit how much temperature and moisture affect the window seals. This is especially important for older homes that have been settling since the initial installation. Regular window maintenance can assist in identifying any problems before they become problematic. This will allow you to schedule a professional to repair your windows when required. If you notice condensation between your window panes, it's an indication that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly and this can lead to poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tapping sound when you push on your window it could be a sign that you have to fix the window. Physical damage to the frame of a window could also cause the window seal to crack. This can happen if your pets or kids accidentally hit the window with a broom, or if harsh cleaning substances such as paint strippers are placed too close to the windows. This can occur if you have aluminum frames installed on your windows, which do not offer the same amount of insulation as wood or fiberglass. A broken seal is best repaired or replaced if the windows are still covered by warranty. This will ensure that your window is quickly repaired or replaced, and could also provide you with the opportunity to upgrade to a more energy efficient frame such as wood or fiberglass. If you've got a damaged glass unit that is insulated, it's usually best to hire an expert to replace it. This is the most cost-effective option. It's important to note, however that a lot of modern windows feature removable IGUs which contain gas that is used to insulate which allows you to replace only the glass unit rather than the entire frame.