5 Laws Everyone Working In Sealed Window Repair Should Be Aware Of
Why It's Important to Repair a Broken Window Seal
The condensation on windows that isn't able to be wiped away is a clear sign that the seal on your window has broken. It also affects the insulation capacity of your home and could cause distortion of views through the glass panes.
While defogging your windows can 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.
Expansion & Contraction
Seals in dual-pane windows may be damaged in time due to the expansion and contraction of the spacers that separate the glass. This happens due to the fluctuations in temperature that occur throughout the day. When the sun warms the glass, it expands and puts pressure on the window seal. At night, as the glass cools, the window seal contracts. The constant contractions and expansions could cause cracks in the seal of the window. This allows humidity to enter and create fog between glass panes. This break in the seal allows inert gases, such as argon, which get trapped between window panes to escape. This significantly reduces the insulating value of the window.
Mold or stains along the edge of double-pane windows are also indicators of a leaky seal. You may also notice an increase in your energy bills or feel drafts around the windows. During this process the window frames could also shift or pull away from the wall. This is a clear sign that the window seal needs to be replaced.
It is a complex and labor-intensive task to replace the seals of a dual paned window. This typically involves removing the old seal, cleaning the windows, and then replacing the IGU. While it is possible to perform the IGU replacement yourself but hiring a professional is highly recommended. Mistakes during this process can cause drafts, water damage pest infestations, and more costly repairs later.
A professional can also assist you in finding the best repair solution to your situation and provide advice on a long-term plan to keep your window sealed correctly. It could be a temporary fix such as caulking the window frame, and the wall, in order to prevent bugs and water from entering the home. Or it could involve replacing the entire IGU with a new one that is more resilient against weather conditions and seal damage. You can also install an entirely new window that has a different IGU with a better seal or is better suited to the climate of your home.
Weather Conditions
While window seals are designed to withstand extreme conditions, prolonged exposure to the elements could eventually cause them to fail. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the glass within the window to expand and shrink. This can put pressure on the seal over time. This is especially true in homes that are located in climates with hot summers and cold winters.
Repair My Windows And Doors , high humidity and other environmental factors can also affect window seals. Wind, in particular can be extremely hard on windows which can cause them to move or become loose over time. This can cause condensation or fogging when air is trapped between the glass panes. Fogging is not a safety issue, but it could make windows appear ugly and make them hard to see through.
Water and humidity can also cause window seals to deteriorate through causing rot to the frame or causing mold growth. If you experience these problems you're likely to find that your window seals are in need of replacement.
Another indication that window seals are beginning to fail is the increase in energy bills. The cooling and heating systems will need to work harder to keep your home comfortable if the seals on your windows have failed which can result in higher energy costs for you and your family.
You might also notice it getting more difficult to shut or open your windows. This is a sign that the seals on your windows have become stiff, and are hindering them from closing or opening correctly. This problem must be addressed before it becomes a major problem, otherwise your windows won't be as efficient as they ought to be.
You can prolong the life of your window seals by observing the instructions provided by the manufacturer for maintenance. It is important to clean them regularly with mild detergents or other approved cleaning agents and to keep them free of debris and dirt. Avoid using heat guns or chemical strippers to clean your windows. They can easily break down the sealant.
Damage
Contrary to single-pane windows from the past, modern triple- and double-pane windows feature glass panes separated by air space, and then sealed completely around the edges to keep humidity out. The spaces between the glass panels are usually filled with inert gases such as argon and krypton, which reduces the transfer of cold and heat outside the window. These windows are also referred to as IGUs, or insulated glass units (IGUs).
Call a professional if you find any indications of broken seals or condensation. They can assess the situation to determine the best way to proceed. Ignoring the issue will only increase the severity of the issue which will result in increased energy costs and more noticeable impact on the comfort of your home.
The most cost-effective solution is to just replace the IGU and retain the frame you have. This is especially beneficial when the frame you have is in good condition and offers more R-value than your original windows and allows you to preserve a large amount of insulating efficiency.
However, if the current frame is in a poor state or has a long-lasting issue and is causing external damage, a complete window replacement might be the most effective option for optimal energy efficiency and security. A professional can complete this type of repair easily and quickly to restore your window's insulating properties while improving the appearance of your home.
If your window is still 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 determine whether this is an option for your particular situation.
Installation
Window seals play a crucial role in keeping drafts away and ensuring energy efficiency in your home. It is not just vital to repair a damaged seal as soon you notice it, but also to conduct preventative maintenance to avoid future issues.
Window maintenance is a continuous procedure that involves regularly checking for gaps and cracks and then re-caulking if required and cleaning. Re-caulk the window seals at least once every year to reduce the impact of humidity and temperature. This is particularly critical for older homes that have been settling since the initial installation.
Regular window maintenance will also assist in identifying any problems before they become problematic. This lets you arrange for a professional to fix your windows as required. If you notice condensation between window panes it could indicate that your glass and frame isn't sealed properly. This could result in poor indoor air quality. If you hear a tapping sound when you push on your window it could be a sign that you need to repair the window.
Physical damage to the window frame can also cause the window seal to crack. This can happen when your children or pets accidentally hit a window with a broom, or when harsh cleaning products, such as paint strippers were used too close to windows. It could also happen when windows are constructed with aluminum frames, which don't provide as much insulative value as wood or fiberglass.
A damaged seal should be replaced or repaired if your windows are still covered by warranty. This will ensure that your window can be quickly repaired or replaced, and could also provide you with the chance to upgrade your window to an energy-efficient frame, like fiberglass or wood.
In the case of an insulated glass unit (IGU) that is broken hiring a professional to repair it is usually the most cost-effective and long-term solution. It's important to note, however that many windows have removable IGUs that contain insulating gas that allows you to replace only the glass unit instead of the entire frame.