Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs: Your Windows Are Telling You They Need Professional Help
Insulated glass units (IGUs) are the backbone of modern energy-efficient windows, but when they fail, the signs are unmistakable. The most obvious indication of failure of an installed insulating glass (IG) unit in a window or door is permanent visual obstruction due to a milky-white fog or film on the interior surfaces of the glass due to moisture infiltration. Understanding these warning signs can save homeowners from escalating energy costs and potential safety hazards.
Understanding Insulated Glass Unit Construction
On dual-pane and triple-pane windows, there is an insulating seal separating the exterior glass pane from the interior glass pane. Some companies refer to this as the “Super Seal” and others refer to it as the “thermal seal” or simply the “spacer”. The seal is a crucial part of the insulated glass unit or, IGU, which prevents the transfer of thermal energy (either hot or cold) from one pane to the other(s). The airgap between glass panes is one of the main reasons the window has insulating properties. This airgap could be filled with either air or one of the inert gases like argon or krypton for increased insulating properties.
Critical Warning Signs Your IGUs Are Failing
Persistent Fogging and Condensation
If you notice moisture or fog trapped between the panes of glass, it’s a clear indication of a broken window seal. You can usually tell your windows are suffering from seal failure if you notice the following signs: Condensation you cannot wipe off from either side of the window · Foggy glass you cannot wipe from either side of the window · Condensation or fogginess that comes and goes frequently · Mineral deposit buildup making glass look dirty even after you clean it. The signs become most dramatic when there’s a large change in temperature outside or inside your space. The first sign you’ll typically see is the condensation building up between the panes.
Energy Efficiency Problems
A sudden rise in heating or cooling costs could signal a broken window seal The compromised insulation allows heat transfer, affecting energy efficiency. Foggy windows compromise the thermal performance of your home, leading to increased heating and cooling costs. Replacing failed IGUs with energy-efficient units can help improve comfort and reduce utility bills.
Physical Seal Damage
Cracks, gaps, or signs of deterioration in the seals around the IGU indicate seal failure and necessitate replacement to prevent further moisture intrusion and damage. If you feel drafts near the window or notice temperature variations, the seal might be compromised. Visible Mold or Staining: Mold or staining along the edges of the windowpane indicates seal damage. Distorted Windowpanes: Sometimes, the glass panes may appear distorted in the center due to seal failure.
Common Causes of IGU Failure
Age: Over time, window seal materials may breakdown, leading to failure. Extreme Weather: Wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations can damage seals. Expansion and Contraction: Windows exposed to intense sunlight expand during the day and contract at night. This repeated stress can weaken the seal. In some cases, IGUs may fail prematurely due to manufacturing defects such as inadequate sealing or improper gas filling. These defects compromise the integrity of the unit and can contribute to fogging or moisture buildup.
Why Professional Replacement is Essential
You might be wondering if you can replace a single pane of glass in an insulated window, and the answer is no. These types of windows are referred to as “units” because all the components come pre-assembled in a sealed unit, so you should always replace the whole window. If you were to attempt to replace a single pane of glass in a double-pane window, there is a high chance that you would just end up damaging the window and its seals further.
Yes, the seal between the panes of dual pane windows can be replaced, but it is a specialized process that typically requires professional assistance. So, while it is possible to replace the seal, it is often more cost-effective and efficient to replace the entire insulated glass unit (IGU) rather than just the seal.
Professional Glass Replacement Services in Pinellas County
For residents in Pinellas County, Florida, including those seeking window glass replacement safety harbor services, Express Glass and Door provides comprehensive IGU replacement solutions. From restored clarity to energy savings, our glass replacement services help bring back safety, comfort, and clean appearance to your space. We handle standard, safety, and energy-saving glass in homes and commercial spaces. Our team is courteous, efficient, and committed to keeping your space clean.
Express Glass and Door has been handling glass replacement in Safety Harbor and throughout Pinellas County for over 30 years. Our family-owned business brings 35 years of industry experience to every job, with knowledge passed down through multiple generations. Unlike larger companies with rigid service menus, we listen to your specific situation and create practical solutions.
The Importance of Timely Action
Check your warranty at the first sign of fogging. The fogging might not be all that irritating at first, but in a few years it will be, and by then your warranty may have expired. Although rare, with a failure rate of about 1 percent after 10 years when properly installed, such permanent failures are highly visible, require window replacement and are potentially detrimental to the reputation of the fabricator.
Foggy or cloudy windows detract from the beauty and value of your home’s exterior and interior. Replacing failed IGUs can enhance curb appeal and restore the aesthetics of your windows. Don’t let failed insulated glass units compromise your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, or value. When you notice the warning signs, contact a professional glass replacement service immediately to restore your windows to optimal performance.