Argon leaking from window?

I've done some research on the argon not to argon with new windows and it seems that it will actually help. My question is how long does it actually stay in the window. Some people mentioned that it usually leaks out after about 5 years. Is there any truth to this???

 

If it leaks out, then air can leak in. That would cause fogging of the window, which would be covered under warranty. Most companies have at least 10 yr warrantys on the glass seal, many are 20 yrs, and some even have lifetime. Of course they count on you not living there that long, or they may not be in business.

The argon is beneficial in some environments (extreme heat or cold air temps IIRC), but I won't try and say that for sure.

I always wondered, how we could be sure it was actually there in the first place...lol.

 

I'm guessing their warranty most companies have the warranty only if the windows are installed by a professional. I'm going to put them myself so I would assume that would void the warranty...

Yeah I was wondering the same thing about knowing if it is actually there.

 

No, warranties apply even if self installed as long as the instructions are followed. Replacement windows are pretty simple. Some of the new construction windows are very very specific about the requirements. Pans, flashing, etc.

 

Depending on the spacer system used and the quality of the workmanship when building the IGU, argon can leak out of an IG fairly quickly, or it can be around for a very long time.

You did not mention LowE coatings, but a LowE coating will have a significantly greater effect on window performance than will argon fill. Of course using a LowE coating and argon fill together maximizes window energy performance.

There are several ways to determine the level of argon fill in an IGU, some of them are destructive and a couple are not. However, all of them involve some very expensive equipment and very few window companies have the capability to measure argon fill in a sealed IGU.