Your home’s windows offer much more than just a view of the great outdoors. They play an important role in energy efficiency. However, they provide this service only while functioning correctly. Among the most common of all window problems are broken window seals. And, unfortunately, since they lead to moisture trapped between panes, they make clean windows nearly impossible to achieve. When it comes to broken seals, here is everything you need to know.
Why are Window Seals Important?
Manufacturers have significantly improved window technology over the years. The reason for this is because people want innovative ways to boost their home’s energy efficiency while simultaneously improving appearance. Today’s windows routinely come in double or triple panes which contain a seal around the perimeter— ensuring an air-tight seal.
Manufacturers fill each pane of glass with gasses such as argon, to provide insulation. The window seal locks in the gas, effectively blocking outside air and keeping hot and cold 
temperatures from entering the structure. This allows the home to maintain warmer temps in the winter and cooler temps in the summer.
Why Do Window Seals Fail?
Window seals break time for numerous reasons. Understanding how breakage occurs is the first step toward prevention.
- Manufacturer Defect
Sometimes window seals fail within the first couple of years of installation, usually due to manufacturing or installation errors. For example, the maker could have used tainted sealant. Or they may fail to allow sufficient time for the sealant to properly cure. - Punctured Seals
Although rare, the shipper or installer could puncture the seal. This could be owed to inexperience or an honest mistake. Make sure you choose reputable window installers with experience and know-how.
- Weather-Related Reasons
Most commonly, window seals break due to weather elements. For instance, windows that incur heavy amounts of sunlight run a higher risk of failing window seals. At other times, homeowners opt for windows which are unsuitable for the climate, causing them to fail relatively fast. Therefore, many midwestern home builders skip aluminum or wood windows. Wood easily warps and rots from prolonged expansion caused by moisture, while aluminum simply doesn’t perform well in extreme weather.
- Unattended Condensation
Failing to notice window condensation can also lead to broken window seals. When you see condensation, wipe it away immediately to prevent mold growth and damage to seals.
How to Detect Broken Seals
Knowing what to watch for and how to respond helps eliminate the risk of broken seals. Look for these common signs of broken window seals:
- Foggy windowpanes
- Glass that’s cold to the touch in the winter months
- Moisture between the panes of glass
- Water in the corners of the glass panes near the window’s bottom edge
- Windows that allow outside air inside
Broken seals can be extremely hard to locate when windows are dirty. Hence, if you believe your windows have compromised seals, call in professionals like Elliot Window Cleaning for a routine service. If we notice that your window seals are broken, we’ll let you know. And we can make recommendations of reputable contractors who can address the problem. At the end of the day, the easiest way to extend the life of your windows is to clean them regularly to prevent the buildup of moisture and other debris. If you live in the Meridian, Idaho, area, call today! We are a family-owned company with more than 30 years of experience, so you can rest assured knowing that we have window cleaning down to a science!
About Elliott Window Cleaning in Meridian, Idaho
We established Elliott Window Cleaning in 2019. But our history runs much deeper. In fact, this family owned, and operated business began in Hood River, Oregon in 1984, where Monty Elliott learned the window cleaning trade from his father. Over the years, Monty has always washed windows – whether it was on the side or as a full-time business. In 2019, Monty and his oldest son, Cody, decided to begin serving the Treasure Valley once again. As a result, all four family members spend their time running the most reliable, friendly, and thorough window cleaning company in the Treasure Valley. At Elliott Window Cleaning, we build trust with each customer and strive to provide an elite experience. For a free, no-obligation quote, call today Call: (208) 600-3154.