How to Tell If Your Window Seal Is Broken (And What to Do)
A broken window seal is one of the most common causes of foggy, hazy, or drafty windows in Toronto and the GTA. The seal runs around the edge of double- and triple-pane insulated glass units (IGUs), keeping moisture out and the insulating gas in. When it fails, you lose clarity, efficiency, and comfort. Here’s how to tell if your window seal is broken and what to do about it.
What Are the Signs of a Broken Window Seal?
Seal failure is usually easy to spot once you know what to look for.
- Fog or condensation between the panes that you cannot wipe away from either side. This is the most common sign: moisture has entered the airspace because the seal has failed.
- A white, hazy, or cloudy film or mineral deposits between the panes, often worse in the morning or when the temperature changes.
- Drafts or cold spots near the window even when it is closed, or a noticeable increase in outside noise.
- Higher heating or cooling bills with no other obvious cause, as the insulating gas has escaped and the window no longer performs as designed.
Why Do Window Seals Fail?
Ontario’s wide temperature swings and strong sun put constant stress on the seal. Over time, the sealant can crack, shrink, or pull away from the glass. Older windows are more likely to fail, but even newer units can fail if there was a manufacturing defect or damage during installation. Once the seal is broken, the condition cannot be reversed; the only fix is to replace the insulated glass unit.
What Should You Do If the Seal Is Broken?
Replace the glass unit, not the whole window. OhMyGlass replaces the IGU while keeping your existing frame and trim, which typically saves 60 to 80 percent compared to a full window replacement. We measure on-site, order or fabricate the correct sealed unit (including Low-E and argon options), and install it with minimal disruption. For a free assessment and quote anywhere in the GTA, contact OhMyGlass or request a free quote online.