Double glazing windows are commonplace in the majority homes across the UK. They do an excellent job keeping your space warm, quiet, and energy efficient. However, they aren’t immune to the wear and tear of time and can start to fail.
Over the years, you may notice a chilly draught creeping through your window or persistent condensation. These are signs your windows need attention, and you may begin to wonder whether double glazing windows can actually be repaired or resealed.
Luckily, in most cases they can. In this article, we’ll explore the signs indicating when resealing is necessary and whether you can do it yourself. Plus, we’ll provide practical tips to maintain the efficiency of your double glazing windows.
How Do Double Glazing Windows Work?
Double glazing windows work by creating a barrier that keeps the outside elements away from your space. Principally, as the name “double glazing” suggests, such types of windows consist of two panes of glass. These panes have a small gap in between, typically filled with air or an inert gas, such as argon.
Mainly, double glazing windows work perfectly in achieving the following.
- Insulation: The space between the two panes acts as an insulator. It prevents heat from escaping your house during the cold month. Similarly, it stops the outside heat from getting inside during the warmer weather.
- Noise Reduction: Both glass panes with the gap in between create a sound barrier as well. As a result, double glazing windows can reduce the amount of noise coming from outside significantly, making your home more peaceful.
- Condensation Control: Double glazing windows also help with the formation of water droplets resulting from moist air meeting a cold surface. That’s because the insulating gap reduces the chances of condensation and keeps your windows clear.
How To Know if Your Double Glazing Windows Need Resealing?
Primarily, there are a few telltales indicating that it’s time to reseal your double glazing windows. Usually, these signs aren’t too hard to notice. Here’s what to look for.
- Draughts: If you feel a breeze when you pass next to your window or notice the curtains moving, it’s a strong sign it needs resealing. That’s especially noticeable during windy days. Even the smallest gap can let air in and out.
- Condensation: Forming fog or condensation between the two panes of glass is also another considerable sign. This is typically a result of moist air getting where it shouldn’t.
- Increased Energy Bill: You may notice a sudden spike in your energy bills for no apparent reason. That usually happens because the heat escapes through compromised seals. As a result, your heating or cooling system works harder to compensate.
- Visible Damage: Sometimes, you can see the problem with your eyes when checking the rubber gaskets around the window frames. If you notice cracks, damages, or discoloration, it’s time to consider resealing.
- Heightened Levels of Noise: When window seals become ineffective, you may notice your home becoming noisier than usual. You can especially notice this if you live in a busy area.
- Mould or Mildew: The growth of mould or mildew around the window frames is another strong sign of excess moisture entering through compromised seals.
- Difficulties Opening or Closing: Seal degradation can also affect the operation of your windows. So, if they suddenly become harder to open or close, the seals may be the main suspect.
Why Do Window Seals Fail?
Like everything around your house, window seals fail over time. Take a look at five of the most common reasons for that.
- Age: The rubber or silicone components of window seals can deteriorate with age. It’s a natural occurrence that causes them to lose their effectiveness.
- Exposure to Environment: Sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures can cause window seals to break down. Additionally, you can’t rule out pollutants and harsh chemicals that cause the sealant material to degrade.
- Poor Installation or Defects: If the window seals weren’t properly installed to begin with, they can fail sooner than usual. Moreover, some double glazing windows come with manufacturing defects.
- Physical Damage: Any accidents or impacts to the window frame can damage the seals and make them less effective.
- Lack of Regular Maintenance: Neglecting windows and not cleaning them regularly may lead to dirt accumulating around the seals. As a result, this weakens the seals and affects their ability to insulate your house.
Can You Reseal Double Glazing Windows Yourself?
Resealing double glazing windows yourself is possible when you have the necessary tools and skills. However, it’s essential to assess the situation carefully and understand that it can be complicated in some cases, and this is why you should consider hiring a professional if the work required is extensive.
Take a look at some key points to consider before attempting to reseal your double glazing windows.
- Skill Level: You need to possess a certain level of DIY skills to achieve the job successfully. If you’re comfortable with basic DIY tasks, you can give it a try.
- Taking Safety Precautions: Dealing with windows positioned high above the ground requires being careful. Your safety comes first. So, use a sturdy ladder and take proper precautions to avoid accidents.
- Assessing the Damage: Inspect the condition of your window seals. If you’re not sure about the extent of the issue, it may be best to consult a professional.
- Following Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the sealant you use to ensure optimal effectiveness. Plus, don’t rush the process and be patient to achieve satisfying results.
How to Reseal Double Glazing Windows: A Step-By-Step Guide
With some patience and basic tools, resealing double glazing windows is achievable. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make the process a bit easier for you.
Tools and Material You Will Need
First, prepare the needed tools to make this project easier. Check out the following list.
- Scraper or utility knife
- Cleaning solution (use soapy water or a mild house cleaner)
- Lint-free cloth or paper towels
- New window sealant (appropriate for the type of your windows)
- Caulking gun (for tube sealant)
- Masking tape (optional)
- Disposable gloves (optional)
Steps You Should Follow
Now that you have everything ready, take a look at the steps you need to follow to reseal your double glazing windows.
- Examine the Existing Seal: Go over the window seals and remove damaged sealants using your scraper. Be careful not to damage the window or the frame around it.
- Clean the Area: Use a cleaning solution to wipe the area around the window thoroughly. This helps remove dirt, grime, and any remaining bits of old sealant. After that, dry the area using paper towels or a lint-free cloth.
- Apply New Sealant: Apply the sealant to the gaps between the window frame and the glass from the inside and outside. Hold the caulking gun at a 45-degree angle and apply steady pressure while moving it along the edges.
- Smooth It Out: Use your finger or any tool to smooth the sealant evenly along the gap. Not only does this make it look neat, but it also ensures a good seal. That said, you can always use a masking tape to create clean edges and remove it before the sealant dries.
- Allow To Cure: Let the sealant dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Such a duration can vary between several hours to a whole day, depending on the product.
Other Options for Repairing Double Glazed Window Seals
The previously mentioned DIY method is great for reinforcing the window seal and preventing air as well as moisture from getting in. Doing so offers short-term relief, but it’s not a permanent solution.
So, aside from reapplying a new sealant, you have two options to address the issue of failed window seals.
A. Hiring a Professional
If the damage is extensive, it’s probably best to hire a professional to handle the situation. Generally, skilled technicians can assess the condition of your double glazing windows and identify any underlying issues.
Not only do they have the expertise to replace damaged sealants, but they can also restore the seal to optimal efficiency. On top of that, they help remove the condensation buildup between the glass panes to restore the windows’ transparency.
B. Replacing Your Double Glazing Window Altogether
In some cases, when the damage is beyond repair, it may be more practical to replace the entire window unit. New double glazing units come with advanced sealing technology, offering superior insulation.
Although it’s a larger investment than just resealing the old window, it offers long-term energy efficiency benefits. Moreover, it results in improved comfort, enhanced aesthetics, and increased property value.
Final Thoughts
The condition of your double glazing window seals plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. That’s why when noticing signs of a seal failure, people often wonder, “Can I reseal double glazing windows myself?”
The answer is yes. However, you should be wise when determining whether to tackle the issue with a DIY resealing project or ask a professional for help. In some cases, resealing the windows may not do the trick of restoring their insulation effectiveness.
Whatever approach you choose to handle the situation, keep in mind that regular maintenance goes a long way. It can help you extend the life of your double glazing windows, allowing you to benefit from them for years to come.
