My window seals failed - will my home insurance cover that?

Most standard home insurance policies don't cover failed window seals, as this is typically considered normal wear and tear rather than sudden damage from a covered peril like storms or accidents.

Window seal failure is a gradual process that happens over time as the sealant around insulated glass units breaks down, allowing moisture to enter between the panes and creating that foggy appearance. Insurance companies generally view this as a maintenance issue similar to a worn-out roof or aging furnace. However, if the seal failure resulted from a specific covered event - like hail damage, a fallen tree, or vandalism - then the repair might be covered under your policy.

Check your policy details or contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage. Some newer or premium policies might include coverage for building envelope failures, though this is uncommon. Even if covered, you'd still need to pay your deductible, which could be $500-$1,000 or more.

In Ottawa's climate with extreme temperature swings from -30°C to +30°C, window seals typically last 15-20 years before failing. The constant expansion and contraction eventually breaks down even quality seals. When seals fail, you lose the insulating properties of the gas fill between panes, making your windows much less energy efficient and increasing heating costs.

Your best option is usually to replace the failed windows with new energy-efficient units. Modern triple-pane windows with proper installation will last longer and provide better insulation than repairing old sealed units. For a free assessment of your failed window seals and replacement options, request a quote from Ottawa Window Pros to explore energy-efficient solutions that can help reduce your heating bills.