Issues like window seal failure often go unnoticed until the damage is clear. Once the insulating edge around the glass weakens, it allows air and moisture to enter, leading to foggy panes, drafts, or even water damage. These changes affect both comfort and energy costs inside your home.
Below, we explain what causes seals to break and how to address the problem early, before it leads to bigger repairs.
What is Window Seal Failure?
Window seal failure happens when the insulating seal around the glass in a window breaks down. This seal is what keeps air and moisture out of the space between the panes of glass, also known as the insulated glass unit (IGU). When it fails, you can lose energy efficiency and see signs of damage around your window.
The Main Causes of Window Seal Failure
Poor Installation
One of the leading causes of window seal failure is poor installation. We’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is to install windows correctly. If the window wasn’t flashed properly, didn’t get the right caulking, or wasn’t foamed and taped as it should have been, water will eventually find its way in. Water is the biggest enemy to any part of your home’s exterior, and when it seeps into window frames, it can weaken the seal over time.
When windows are installed poorly, you’ll start to see leaks, rot, and eventually seal failure. These installation issues can’t be fixed by patching them up later. We always recommend having a professional handle window installations to make sure the seals stay strong for years to come.
Material Quality and Weather Impact
The quality of the window material also plays a big role in how long your window seals will last. Vinyl windows, for example, are more likely to have seal problems because they’re more flexible and can warp under pressure from strong winds. Over time, these movements can break down the window frame and sills, which eventually leads to window seal failure.
Mother Nature can be harsh on your home’s exterior, especially in places like Kansas City, where storms and strong winds are common. These natural forces add to the wear and tear on your windows, especially if you have weaker materials like vinyl. The frame can shift or bend, putting stress on the seals and causing them to break down over time.
Water and Wood
For wood windows, the biggest problem is water. If water gets into the wood, it can rot and damage the seal. Moisture can find its way in through tiny gaps or cracks in the window’s caulking and flashing, so it’s important to keep these areas well-maintained.
Why We Recommend Fiberglass for Long-Term Seal Strength
At Fairway Exteriors, we almost always recommend fiberglass windows when homeowners ask us about long-term window performance. Unlike vinyl, fiberglass is a much stronger material that can stand up to wind, rain, and temperature changes without warping or cracking. This means the seals around the glass stay tighter and last longer.
Fiberglass windows are also better at handling the daily changes in temperature that cause other materials to expand and contract. Over 20 to 40 years, fiberglass windows hold up much better than vinyl or wood, giving you peace of mind that your window seals will stay in good shape.
Key Takeaways
- Window seal failure is often caused by poor installation, water damage, and the material quality of the window itself.
- Vinyl windows are more likely to have seal problems in strong winds, while wood windows are more vulnerable to water damage.
- Fiberglass windows are the most durable choice for preventing window seal failure in the long term.
- If you’re worried about window seal failure, it’s important to consider the strength and longevity of the materials in your next window project.
If you’re dealing with window seal failure or want to avoid it in the future, we’re here to help. At Fairway Exteriors, we’re always ready to discuss your window options and help you choose the best solution for your home.
