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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 window seal is damaged. It also affects the insulation capability of your home. It could cause distortion of views through the glass panes. While defogging your windows may temporarily solve the problem, a permanent solution involves replacing the IGU. (IGU). A professional window company should handle this to ensure that the replacement is carried out in a timely manner. Contraction and Expansion Over time, seals in dual pane windows break down due to expansion and contraction of the spacer separating the glass. This is because of the temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the day. As the sun heats the glass, it expands, putting pressure on the window seal. As the glass cools down at night, the seal on the window contracts. These constant contractions and expansions can result in a break in the window seal, permitting humidity to enter the window, creating fog between the glass panes. This crack in the seal can allow inert gases like argon, which are trapped between window panes, to escape. This greatly reduces the insulation value of the window. Other indications of a damaged window seal are visible staining or mold on the edge of a double-paned window. There could be an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts near the windows. During this process windows can be able to move or pull away from the wall. This is a clear indication that the window seal has to be replaced. Replacing the seals of windows with dual panes is a complicated and labor intensive project that typically requires removing both the old seal as well as the new one, cleaning both of the windows and then replacing the IGU. While replace double glazing seal is possible to replace the IGU by yourself, hiring a professional is strongly advised. This procedure is susceptible to errors that could cause the destruction of your home and pests. A professional can help you find the right repair solution for your situation and provide advice on how to maintain the seal on your window over time. This could involve a short-term solution, such as caulking the gap between the frame of the window and the wall to stop bugs and water from entering your home, or it could require replacing the entire window with a brand new IGU that is more resistant to weather conditions and seal damage. It could also mean installing a new window with a different IGU that has a higher quality seal or is better suited to your home's climate. Weather Conditions Window seals are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, constant exposure could cause them to fail. Extreme temperature changes can cause the glass in the window to expand and contract. This can put pressure on the seal over time. This is particularly true for homes located in climates that have hot summers and freezing winters. High humidity, storms, and other environmental factors can also cause damage to window seals. Wind specifically can be very hard on windows, causing them to move or loosen over time. This can lead to fogging or condensation when air is trapped between the glass panes. While fogging is not an immediate danger but it can affect the appearance of your windows and make them difficult to look through. In addition, humidity and water can cause window seals to deteriorate by causing rot on the frame or causing mold growth. If you're experiencing any of these issues you're likely to find that your window seals require replacement. Another indication that seals on windows are beginning to fail is a rise in energy bills. If your window seals are damaged, your cooling and heating systems will have to perform more efficiently to keep you and your family at ease. This can result in higher utility costs. You might also notice it getting more difficult to shut or open your windows. This indicates that the window seals have become stiff and not opening and closing properly. This problem must be dealt with before it becomes a major problem, otherwise your windows won't be as efficient as they should. You can extend the lifespan of your window seals by following the maintenance instructions of the manufacturer. This includes regularly cleaning them with mild detergent or another approved cleaning agent and ensuring they are free of dirt and debris. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. These can easily cause damage to the sealant. Damage Modern triple and double pane windows are different from the old single-paned windows. They have glass panes that are separated by an air space, and then completely sealed around the edges. This keeps moisture out. Often, the spaces between the glass panes are filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton to further reduce the transfer of cold or heat out the window. These windows are also known as Insulated Glass Units (IGUs). Contact a professional if detect any indications of damaged seals or condensation. They can evaluate the situation to determine the best way to proceed. Doing nothing will only make the problem worse which will result in more energy costs and a more visible impact on the comfort of your home. The most economical option is to replace your IGU and keep the current window frame. This is especially beneficial when your frame is in good shape and has an higher R rating than your previous windows. You can keep a significant amount of insulation efficiency. If the frame is damaged, outdated or has any other exterior damage and is in poor condition, you may want to consider a full window replacement for the highest energy efficiency and security. A professional can complete this type of repair effortlessly and quickly and restore your window's insulation properties, while improving the appearance of your home. If your window is still covered by warranty the installer or manufacturer might be willing to replace or repair the damaged IGU for no cost. Review the window's warranty 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. It is not just crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it, but also to conduct preventative maintenance to avoid any future problems. Window maintenance is an ongoing process that includes regularly checking for gaps and cracks and re-caulking when required and cleaning. Re-caulk the window seals at least once a year to minimize the impact of humidity and temperature. This is particularly crucial for older homes whose foundations have shifted since their first installation. Regular window maintenance can help you identify any problems before they become a problem. This allows you to plan a repair with a professional your windows if required. If you notice condensation between your window panes, it's an indication that the frame and glass aren't sealed properly and can result in poor indoor air quality. If you also hear a thumping sound when you push on your window, it's a sign that the window is damaged and needs to be repaired. Damage to the window frame can also cause the window seal to crack. This could happen if your pets or children accidentally strike the window with a broom or if harsh cleaning materials like paint strippers are sprayed too close to windows. This can occur if you have aluminum frames that are installed on your windows, which don't offer the same amount of insulation as fiberglass or wood. A damaged seal should be repaired or replaced if your windows are still covered by warranty. This will not only ensure that your window is repaired or replaced swiftly but could also give you the chance to upgrade to a more efficient frame material, such as fiberglass or wood. If you've broken an insulated glass unit is usually recommended to hire an expert to replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution. It is worth noting, however that a lot of modern windows feature removable IGUs that contain insulating gas which allows you to replace just the glass unit, not the entire frame.