Noticing fog or moisture trapped between your window panes? That’s usually a sign that the seal has failed. Seals play an essential role in keeping moisture out and maintaining energy efficiency in your home. Over time, they can wear down from age, weather, or installation issues. By understanding what causes window seals to fail, you will be better prepared to spot problems early and know when it is time to repair or replace them.
Natural Breakdown Over Time
Over the years, even the best windows start to show their age. The constant changes in weather and daily use slowly wear down the seals, no matter how well they were installed. As they weaken, you may notice fog between the panes, a draft near the frame, or glass that looks cloudy. Regular checkups can help you spot these issues, but eventually, older windows will need repair or replacement.
Sun Exposure
Sun Exposure can also be a common cause of window seal failure. Think about how hot your car gets when it sits in the sun all day. Windows at home go through a similar process. When sunlight heats the glass and frame, they expand, and when the temperature cools at night, they contract again. This constant cycle slowly wears down the seals.
Poor Installation
Even brand-new windows can have problems if they weren’t installed correctly. A seal that isn’t installed properly from the start may not stand a chance against years of weather and temperature changes. Sometimes it’s a tiny gap, sometimes it’s uneven pressure on the glass, but those small mistakes can turn into bigger issues down the road. The result is the same: seals wear out much faster than they should, leaving you with drafty windows.
Excess Moisture
Moisture is the enemy of a healthy window seal. High humidity, heavy rain, or even water leaks around the frame can put extra pressure on seals. Over time, too much moisture causes the sealant to soften, weaken, and eventually fail. Once that happens, condensation finds its way between the panes, and the window’s insulating power drops. If you live in an area with damp or humid conditions, it’s especially important to keep an eye out for these early warning signs.
Pressure Changes
Window seals also deal with invisible forces, like changes in air pressure. When strong winds push against your windows or when you travel through areas with big altitude changes, the glass and frame shift slightly under the pressure. While you may not notice it happening, the seals feel the stress. Over time, that constant push and pull can weaken them, leading to gaps where moisture and air can slip through.
How to Prevent Broken Window Seals
While no window seal lasts forever, there are steps you can take to help them last longer.
- Keep up with regular cleaning: Dirt and debris that build up around the frame can trap moisture and speed up wear on the seals.
- Check for water leaks: Make sure your windows and surrounding trim are sealed properly so rainwater doesn’t sneak in and damage the window seals.
- Maintain indoor humidity: High indoor humidity can cause condensation to form, which puts extra pressure on the seals. Using a dehumidifier in damp rooms can help.
- Provide shade where possible: Blinds, curtains, or UV film can reduce direct sun exposure, protecting both the glass and the seals.
- Schedule inspections: If your windows are older, have a professional check them. Catching small problems early often prevents bigger, costlier repairs later.
Professional Window Solutions You Can Rely On
At Atlantic Window Warehouse, our team focuses on thermopane glass repair and replacement window supply to keep your home working smoothly and looking its best. Whether you’re dealing with a single foggy window or multiple seal failures, our team has the experience and tools to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and see how we can help improve the comfort and efficiency of your home.