Argon-filled Windows Problems: What To Do If You Face Any

Although argon-filled windows are yet to be mainstream, there is no denying their popularity. Having an argon-filled window comes with a lot of benefits, that’s for sure.

However, argon-filled windows are not perfect, contrary to many people’s beliefs. This statement may make you curious about what might be the problem with argon-filled windows, right?

Well, there are several problems that need mentioning. Let us explain them without any further delay.

Table of Contents

What are the argon gas-filled windows problems?

As mentioned at the start, argon-filled gas windows have some drawbacks that may be a dealbreaker for you. But you want to know what those problems are, right? Let’s see!

Leakage problem

The most common problem with an argon-filled window is the leakage problem. Although argon does neither expand nor contract with the change in temperature, the same is not the case for glass. The glass panels either contract or expand with the increase or decrease of temperature. This causes the seals between the glass panels to open up. Hence, leakage takes place.

Change in altitude

Another problem occurs with the change in altitude. The window seals seem to fail when the altitude of the windows changes. When that happens, argon leaks from the window, making it ineffective. As argon is a colourless and odourless gas, you will not notice the leakage until it is late. However, you can tackle this problem.

Costly replacement

There is another thing to keep in mind. It is true that argon-filled windows are not very expensive. However, you can find some costly models with extra functionalities in the market. This will cause the expenses to pile up when you replace all of your old windows with argon-filled windows.

Sun rays may pass inside

Also, if your window has no low E coating, sun rays will pass inside. This will result in the interior getting pretty warm, so much so that you might feel uncomfortable at that temperature. In addition to that, energy consumption will also be higher in a warmer house, making the whole idea of saving energy invalid.

Can’t insulate sound perfectly

Furthermore, unlike heat, argon cannot insulate sound very well. So your home will not be soundproof when you use Argon-filled windows, which would be possible with some other soundproof gases.

Can you repair argon-filled windows?

Although it is problematic, argon-filled windows can be repaired in most cases. Firstly, you need to check the damage. If the condition of your window is too poor, you are better off replacing it.

If that is not the case, you can always re-add the gas and apply a new seal. This will make the window as good as new. However, with time, leakage will happen again. So, you might need to repair the windows a number of times.

Argon gas-filled windows problems: How to fix

As we have mentioned previously, the main problem of argon-filled windows is leakage. To prevent leakage, you need to maintain the window properly. But, leakage will take place nonetheless. In that case, you must re-apply the seal after refilling the argon gas inside the glass panels.

Moreover, you can also use a breather tube when there is a chance of leakage due to altitude change. This will reduce the possibility of leakage by a large margin.

Also, to keep the sun rays from entering your house, you must buy argon-filled windows with Low E coating. This will block the sun’s rays while keeping your house sufficiently warm. While it will cost a bit much, you will save a lot of money over time.

Argon-filled windows cost

New argon-filled windows cost around 40 US dollars per square foot. However, there are a lot of models with various specifications in the market. So, the price can vary from model to model. To be honest, argon-filled windows are much cheaper than most of their alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth getting argon-filled windows?

Yes. Argon-filled windows have some mentionable positive sides to them. These windows will save a lot of money down the line.

Can you replace argon gas in double-pane windows?

With the help of an expert, it is possible to replace argon gas in a double-pane window. But, this is a short-term solution as leakage is a common occurrence in this type of window.

Do argon-filled windows fog up?

No. Argon does not contain any moisture in between. So, a properly maintained argon-filled window has no possibility of fogging up. However, with time moisture seeps through the window and replaces the argon. This makes it fog up.

Does argon leak out of windows?

Yes, argon leaks out of windows. It is the most common problem of argon-filled windows. If not cautious enough, you will not even notice it leaking out because it has neither any colour nor any odour.

Conclusion

It is evident from this article that argon-filled windows have some drawbacks. However, the question you need to ask yourself is whether any of them is a significant concern for you.

If not, you might consider buying them as these windows have a lot of positives. Also, argon-filled windows pose no harm to the human body. So, you do not need to concern yourself with the safety issue.

We wish that we have helped you in understanding the problems of an argon-filled gas.