A window seal is a sealant around the windows, which keeps the dust, noise, air, and humidity out, creating a healthy barrier between indoor and outdoor elements. However, if your window is foggy, leaking water, and humid, then it could be a sign of a broken window seal. Other signs, such as cracks, gaps, peeling, and sudden bombardment of outdoor noise, also indicate a broken window seal.
Fixing a broken seal is a daunting task, and calling a professional means spending hundreds of dollars. But here’s the silver lining: you can do it yourself with the right tools, quality materials, and a little bit of patience and knowledge. However, before embarking on this DIY journey, there are a few things that you need to understand about window seals, such as the types, safety measures, and more.
Let’s understand the types of window seals. There are three types of window seals: silicone caulking, weatherstripping, and an insulated glass unit. Silicone caulking is applied around the window frame, preventing water from seeping in. The weatherstripping is placed on the parts of the window with gaps when closed, preventing air and moisture from entering. An insulated glass unit is applied between the double and triple-glazed window panes.
Once you know the type, there are safety concerns that must be adhered to. For example, the window should be fully accessible and safe to work on. If the window frame is too high, you might also need a ladder to reach the top, so be cautious with that. Second, make sure that the window is not very old and is covered by a warranty. Now that you have a better understanding of window seal, its types, importance, and factors that could damage it, it’s time to learn how to fix a window seal like a pro.
Also Read: How to Replace a Bathroom Fan Safely by Yourself
Things You’ll Need:
- Flashlight
- Magnifying glass
- Moisture meter
- Infrared thermometer
- Utility knife
- Soft cloth
- Measuring tape
- Weather stripping
How to Fix a Window Seal Yourself
Remove the Old Seal
In order to fix a window seal, first you need to get rid of the old one from the window frame using a utility knife. Start by removing all the remnants of the old sealant for the new seal to be fixed in place more efficiently.
Cleaning the Window Frame
Then, you need to clean the window frame immaculately with a soft cleaning cloth. Make sure you leave no dirt and debris behind, as it can make applying a fresh sealant troublesome. So, be thorough with this part.
Applying New Sealant
Next, measure the dimensions of your window frame with a measuring tape. Take a new weatherstripping to fit the measured dimensions. For the next step, you need to remove the adhesive backing from the weatherstripping and apply it to the window frame. Don’t forget to press it firmly to secure the seal in place. For the last step, close the window. If it closes effortlessly that means the seal is fastened and working effectively.
Final Word
Now that you know how to fix a window seal, you must understand that it can get worn out before its warranty period if not well-maintained. There are certain factors – external elements, change in temperature, and more – that could damage a window seal before its time.
However, with regular cleaning of dirt and debris with mild cleaners, good ventilation, and avoiding high-pressure washing, you can prevent the seal from an untimely damage. All these aforementioned methods can significantly extend the life of your window seal, maintaining the overall comforts of your home.
