Information About Replacing Thermal Windows

Old, single paned windows may not be extinct yet, but they are quickly going the way of the dodo bird. They are being replaced by more energy-efficient, thermal windows by home and property owners around the world. The reason for this is that they offer greater protection from the outdoor environment than their predecessors.

It may be an exciting adventure for children to etch their names and draw pictures of animals and other interesting designs into frost that forms on old style window panes, but it is not so exciting for parents and other adults to find that this frost is simply evidence that cold is seeping into homes. The invention of thermal windows has eliminated that worry for those who are wise enough to have them installed.

The truth is that homeowners have been able to enjoy the convenience and cost savings offered by insulated glass window units for several decades. In addition to that, the vast majority of homes being built today have these windows installed. As a matter of fact, in some areas of the country building regulations explicitly state that thermal windows must be installed. 

An insulated glass unit consists of two panes of glass that are sandwiched together with air space in between. The air space is created by a spacer that forms the frame onto which these panes are glued. Most units these days have argon gas sealed inside which makes the windows even more energy efficient. The techniques used to make these units ensure that there is a vacuum on the inside and the seal makes it air tight and free of water vapor.

Over time, this seal can be compromised and air from the outside gets in. the result is that water vapor develops and condensation shows up on the inside surface of the panes. This is not only unsightly, but it also causes the energy-efficiency of the unit to diminish. Some homeowners fail to notice this has happened on windows that are covered on the inside by curtains or on the outside by screens. When this situation is left in place long enough, mold and other flora can begin growing in between the glass. This is another problem altogether.

There are a number of things that can cause the seal on thermal windows to be compromised. Age and exposure to temperature changes certainly can take its toll, but hail, high winds and other natural elements also cause this to happen. When it does, the best thing property owners can do is contact a professional window service contractor to come by and measure for a new unit. 

In most cases, it is not necessary to replace the entire window when it is only the insulated unit that is involved.  A window service professional is the best person to give advice on this because they are well informed on what the industry offers.

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