Regardless of how well we care for our windows, frequent use and the passage of time will inevitably take their toll.
While the windows in our homes provide us with an abundance of natural light, fresh air, and beautiful views, they are also continually exposed to the elements and subject to harsh weather, extreme heat, and excess moisture.
The average lifespan of a residential window is about 15 to 20 years, depending on where you live and how well your windows are maintained. However, if your windows are older, or if you have been lax about upkeep—especially for those windows that see a lot of use—you may begin to notice the telltale signs of window seal failure.
These include:
- Moisture and fogging
- Your home is more drafty than usual
- There is an increase in noise from outside the home
- Rotting or warped frames
- Noticeable cracks or gaps in the seal
Should you reseal or replace your windows?
Unfortunately, by the time you notice one or more of these problems, it may be too late to reseal your windows—but a quick visual inspection should be able to tell you which option is the best choice. Look for any of the signs listed above that you may have a faulty seal; you can also use a butane lighter to test for air leaks around the edges of the window.
If the damage is minimal, and/or if a window replacement is not in the budget, you can choose to reseal the window on your own. Just be sure to fully remove the old sealant and clean the area before applying a new (preferably high-quality) sealant. However, keep in mind that this is a temporary fix, and a professional window replacement is always the best option.
Why are window seals important?
While many older homes may still have single-pane windows, most windows installed today are double- or triple-pane windows that are filled with insulated gasses (such as argon and krypton). Window seals are necessary to keep the gas inside the window panes, where they help to prevent air leakage so your heating and cooling costs stay low.
Get the best windows for your budget at XO Windows.
Home improvement projects can be pricey, which is why many homeowners put them off until a small problem turns into a bigger (and usually more expensive) problem. If your windows have faulty seals but you are on the fence about whether or not to install new windows, talk to our team about getting a free estimate. We specialize in delivering the right window solutions for every home and budget, and we can save you the trouble of resealing with a full selection of high-quality, affordable windows you’ll love.