Window Seal Repair: Everything You Need to Know About This

Is there condensation on your windows that can't just be wiped down? That's the most obvious sign that you're dealing with a broken window seal.

Over time, window seals can degrade because of temperature fluctuations, moisture, or simple wear and tear. When a window seal fails, it allows air and moisture to seep in between the two panes of glass. They remain trapped in that space and thus compromise your window's energy efficiency.

Therefore, if you want to discover whether window seal repair is possible, keep reading! This article covers everything you need to know about the topic.

Key Takeaways

• The term "window seal" refers to the seal in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) that insulates the window unit, thus keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient. Some homeowners also refer to caulking and weatherstripping as window seals.
• Seals fail because of wear and tear, temperature fluctuations, poor installation, or physical damage. A broken seal causes issues like condensation between panes, drafts, and higher energy bills.
• Fixing an IGU seal is complicated and requires professional help. Most of the time, it's best to replace the entire IGU.

What Are Window Seals?

When talking about window seals, homeowners usually refer to:

• Caulking, which is a sealant applied around fixed window parts that prevents air leaks and water infiltration
• Weatherstripping, which is a sealant applied around movable window parts
• Window seal within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU), which is installed between two glass panes

All of these components act as a barrier against the elements–dirt, wind, water, and extreme temperatures. Properly sealed windows keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer and help you save on energy bills. So if any of the above fail, you'll likely feel drafts or see water leaking around the windows, and your energy consumption will rise.

However, it's important to note that caulking and weatherstripping are not window seals per se. Only the material installed inside the IGU that creates an airtight and watertight space is a window seal.

But what exactly causes a window seal to fail, and can this issue be repaired? Keep reading to find out!

Common Causes Broken Window Seals

If you're thinking about caulking and weatherstripping as window seals, there's no need to worry. They fail because of wear and tear. After all, they are not designed to last as long as a window unit and need to be replaced every few years.

For example, caulking can get damaged if it's installed around vinyl windows. They expand and contract and may cause the caulking to crack.

When it comes to the window seal in an IGU–now, that's a different story. That seal is not meant to fail for years if it's high-quality and the window is properly installed. In theory, it should last as long as the window unit itself. Sometimes, however, it does fail. Most often, this is caused by:

• Constant expansion and contraction. As the sun warms up the window, it expands and puts pressure on the seal. Overnight, the window cools and shrinks. This process is continuously repeated. This is why windows installed in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations and hot climates fail more quickly.
• Physical impacts. Cleaning tools or accidental damage can compromise the integrity of window seals.
• Incorrect window installation and/or poor material quality. If the window is improperly installed and/or the materials used to manufacture the IGU are of poor quality, the seal (and not only) may fail pretty quickly.
• High winds and house settling. These can also apply pressure on the window panes and seals, leading to failure.
• Heat guns that are used by house painters to remove paint from window frames can damage the seals.

Identifying a Broken Window Seal

Condensation between panes–that's the most evident sign of seal failure. Condensation on the interior glass pane and the exterior glass pane is not an issue. It becomes a problem when it's between panes, meaning when you can't wipe it down. Why? Because it means there's air and moisture between the panes. And this indicates the IGU is not sealed properly. It also indicates that the more air enters that space, the more inert gas escapes it, so the window's insulation is consistently decreasing.

However, you may not notice condensation right away, which is why it's important to check for other signs, such as drafts around the window and temperature fluctuations near it. Water leaks may also suggest compromised seals. However, these may also be caused by gaps around the window frame, which can be easily filled with caulking.

Higher energy bills may also indicate a broken seal–when a window seal fails, your heating or cooling bills will increase. You may also notice that outside noise seems louder than usual. This can also indicate a problem with the window's ability to insulate well against outside air and sounds.

Now, is window repair a possibility for broken seals, or will you have to replace the window sash or the whole window unit?

Broken Window Seal: Repair vs. Replacement

First things first–what window seal are we talking about? If you're thinking about caulking or weatherstripping, you can simply replace it. All you have to do is remove the old caulking or weatherstripping with a utility knife, clean the window thoroughly, and apply the new sealant. You may also need a tape measure to get the correct window size and cut the new weatherstripping for a perfect fit.

If we're talking about the window seal within an IGU, things get more complicated. In this case, the first thing you should do is check your window warranty, as it may cover the window repair. If it covers the repair/replacement cost, contact the window manufacturer.

If the warranty doesn't cover it, you can try to repair it. There are numerous reliable window seal repair services you can rely on. The experts basically drill a tiny hole in the glass and remove the moisture from between the panes. Then, they install a new seal. However, if the IGU is filled with inert gas, you may have to get the IGU refilled with gas, depending on how much gas has escaped it.

This is why specialists do not typically recommend repairing a broken IGU seal. In fact, it is often much cheaper and convenient to replace the entire IGU.

You can, of course, leave the window as it is. Failed IGU window seal does not cause issues right away. So, if your windows are approaching the end of their lifespan, you can wait a few more years and then replace the whole window. Keep in mind that this may still affect your home's energy efficiency. Plus, the windows will remain foggy.

Replacing the Insulated Glass Unit (IGU)

Sometimes (most times, actually!), the best solution for a broken window seal is replacing the entire window IGU. Luckily, you may be able to go for the budget-friendly option. If the window frame is in good shape, you can replace only the IGU. This is much cheaper than replacing the whole window. A retrofit project implies that the window frame remains in place, and you only replace the window sash.

On the other hand, if the failed seal is on an older window that shows signs of damage on and around the frame, it's best to replace the entire unit with a new thermal window. Although a full window replacement costs more, it is worth it if we consider its long-term benefits. You'll say goodbye to drafty windows, you'll enjoy high-quality units that close properly, and you won't have to deal with old seals for the next 20-30 years–40 years if you get Magic windows!

Preventing Future Window Seal Failure

If you repair the window seal or replace the entire window unit, it's important to take some measures to prevent future issues. The best way to do this is through routine inspections.

Check for signs of wear and tear every once in a while. This way, you can spot problems early on and address minor problems before they become severe. It is equally important to clean and maintain your windows properly. This prolongs their lifespan and prevents dirt and debris buildup, which can further damage the window unit.

Moreover, keep in mind climate consideration, especially given the extreme temperature fluctuations in Canada. Your windows may benefit from protective coatings or some extra storm windows that would protect them against the elements.

Magic's Innovative Window Technologies

Have you decided to replace your windows? Contact Magic! We offer a combination of advanced materials, innovative designs, and energy-efficient features that make our windows stand out in the industry!

Our IGUs incorporate more argon gas between the panes compared to standard windows. This enhancement significantly improves thermal insulation. Plus, we incorporate the best-performing warm-edge spacers and seals. Since we've brought glass production in-house, we prioritize full window customization based on regional climates and your specific needs and preferences.

Designed specifically for Canada's climate, Magic's Hybrid Fusion Frame further improves energy efficiency and prevents window seal failure. It is a combination of vinyl, aluminum, and steel that offers superior durability and insulation properties.

Last but not least, Magic windows can be equipped with state-of-the-art window treatments that are retractable and thus easily and fully accessible! Our thermal blinds, for example, make a double-pane window even more efficient than a triple-pane window! Our solar shades, on the other hand, block harmful UV rays and significantly reduce solar heat gain and thus energy costs as well.

Have we already mentioned that our windows come with a 40-year warranty that covers the IGU seal as well?

Get High-Quality Windows with Magic!

Want to learn more about the magic behind our products and get windows whose seal will last for 40 years or more? Contact us today for a free consultation and see why homeowners trust Magic for our window solutions!

Magic proudly serves homeowners across the GTA and beyond. We install windows as far north as Parry Sound, south to Niagara Falls, west of Ottawa, and East to London!

Here are three easy ways to get started:

• Give us a call at (647) 931-4809 for immediate assistance.
• Request a quote through our website.
• Schedule a free in-home consultation at [email protected]. While our showroom is closed for major renovations, our team can demonstrate Magic products with real samples from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can window seals be repaired?

Window seals can sometimes be repaired, but it is generally recommended to replace the entire glass unit if you already have foggy windows. Caulking and weatherstripping, on the other hand, can be easily replaced.

Can I replace the window seals myself?

It's best to hire professionals to replace the window seal between the two panes of glass or replace the entire glass unit.

Can you reseal a window yourself?

You can reseal the window yourself if you're talking about replacing caulking and weatherstripping. If you have foggy windows, however, you're likely dealing with a broken IGU window seal, in which case you need professional help.

How can I tell if my window seal is broken?

You can determine if your window seal is broken by checking for persistent condensation between the glass panes, as well as drafts or temperature fluctuations. Additionally, a sudden increase in energy bills may indicate a compromised seal.

What causes window seals to fail?

Window seals often fail because of temperature changes, aging, physical damage, poor installation, and exposure to harsh chemicals.

Should I repair or replace a window with a broken seal?

If the window seal that separates the glass panes is broken, the best solution is to replace the entire glass unit.