Vinyl Window Crack

This crack is in what appears to be a mullion between a tall fixed and small awning vinyl window on the inside of the condo. Doesn’t a look like an issue as there’s no other evidence of window problems. There are two windows in the same wall and same level as well as two directly underneath these in the lower level with same issue. No other windows exhibit this condition. Appreciate any thoughts. Thanks

Is this newer construction? Initially I would say material shrinkage, but can’t really prove that obviously. Have any more pics further back?

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I agree with Ryan. From here, that looks like caulk shrinkage. The cheaper the caulk…the more it shrinks. Is it covering up a bigger issue? Not enough information to say.

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The building is 20 years old. My question is about the horizontal crack in the vinyl, not the caulking crack.

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I see it now. Is that a two piece trim or one piece split/cracked horizontally?
image

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It is one piece cracked horizontally

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between 20-40 years

On average, vinyl windows last between 20-40 years. Their life expectancy depends on the climate and conditions you live in. For instance, if your windows are exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods of time, the vinyl will break down faster and their lifespan will be closer to 20 years.Mar 10, 2020

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Here’s another window with what looks like a more realistic crack.

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snow?

Ahh, gotcha. My eyes went immediately to the vertical crack and I didn’t even notice the horizontal one. :eyeglasses:

May have happened during install and have been this way for 20 years. Or an indicator of settlement. Did the windows operate ok? Other signs of settlement? Probably just a big nothing burger.

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Windows operated just fine, I agree, probably a nothing burger.
Thanks.

Snow on the bbq outside.

Did the window have a failed seal?

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No, dirty though

There are some unusual forces being applied to these windows in my opinion. Especially if the caulking is cracked at all these locations also. Interior caulking like that doesn’t normally crack unless there is some good movement going on or it is very, very old.

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Possibly, like a drunk at the BBQ falling backwards :laughing:

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Well, yes that’s what I thought originally but no drywall cracks or other indications of significant settling. I see the caulk cracking all the time in homes and condos. Our climate is sub arctic Colorado mountains.

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Extreme hot and cold expanding and contracting the vinyl?

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