Can Strong Winds Damage Window Seals?

If you notice your windows are starting to look foggy, you might want to look into the condition of your window seals. You should be particularly wary of this issue if you live in an area that experiences a lot of winds. While winds may not immediately cause damage to your window seals, accumulated exposure to the elements can eventually take a toll on this specific window component.

Renewal by Andersen® of Rapid City, a casement window replacement expert, shares more information below.

How Multi-Pane Windows Work

In order to understand the risk of wind damage, it would be helpful to have an idea about how multi-pane windows are built and how much load these windows can sustain on a daily basis.

Multi-pane windows typically consist of a window frame that holds insulated glass (IG) units, which feature two or more layers of glass that have moisture-less gas trapped between them. The trapped gas plays an important role as it conducts heat less efficiently than outside air, reducing the heating and cooling demand inside your home. This also provides an added benefit that enables windows to resist fogging and frosting. So once your windows start becoming foggy, this could be an indication of a problem.

When Can Strong Winds Damage Window Seals?

Home replacement windows are designed to withstand a range of weather conditions and temperature changes. Typically, window components lower in temperature during the evening and increase in temperature during the day. The trapped gas expands when heated and contracts when cooled. This cycling of pressures occurs on a daily basis, and it can take a toll on your windows over time. This can cause the seals to deteriorate and eventually form small cracks, which can then allow more infiltration and exfiltration of air between the panes.

So if your windows are already compromised this way, a strong wind can possibly worsen their condition and cause window seals to fail. This can especially happen if the wind comes with debris. That said, the wind may be considered a contributing factor to window seal failure. 

Renewal by Andersen of Rapid City is a decades-old company that takes pride in its top-notch window services and products. We carry out a variety of projects including awning windows installation, French patio door replacement, and more. Call us at (605) 341-7831 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in Spearfish, SD.