A Guide On How To Reseal Double Glazing Windows

Resealing double glazed units might seem tricky, but it’s not impossible to do yourself and Double Glazing On The Web is here to help! It might take a bit of work, but repairing your window seals can benefit your home massively in the long run.

Double glazing relies on a working and secure seal; that’s what makes your home feel warmer and more comfortable. Each double glazed unit has a seal around the window frame which protects the inside of the window from air and water, ensuring nothing can get into the gap between the two panes of glass. However, over time, the actual sealant can deteriorate, and this happens more frequently in older windows too.

When the sealant in your windows breaks down, you’ll usually notice this quite quickly. For example, condensation may build up between the two window panes: this is almost impossible to get rid of. Also, the glass may become weaker when the sealant fails, so it’s more likely to break or crack, and this can mean a window repair, often at a high cost.

So, why not save yourself some money and reseal windows yourself? With the right equipment and advice, you can repair the sealant, making your window seals as good as new and, saving money on your double glazing condensation repair cost. However, resealing double glazed windows does require some expertise – it’s easy to get it wrong.

An alternative to resealing your double glazing yourself is to find a professional through Double Glazing On The Web. And, if you’re tired of your old windows, why not ask for a quote to replace them? We have a network of local window replacement companies offering high-quality windows with durable sealants that are guaranteed not to fail.

Double glazing relies on a secure seal to protect the window panes. If double glazing seals break, then all the thermal and sound insulation benefits are lost.

There are several reasons why double glazing seals break. First, damage can be caused by defective installation where the sealant has become tainted during the process or it was not given enough time to cure and harden. Sometimes, the sealed sheets are damaged or punctured during transit. Even chemically abrasive cleaning agents can, over time, cause the destruction of your window seals.

Another reason could simply be the age of your windows. Window seals fail on timber frames around the glazing because wood is not a weatherproof material. Timber can crack, warp and twist, exposing the underlying sealant and causing it to deteriorate.

Condensation building up on the glass window panes may also cause the sealant to fail. Excess moisture eventually creates mould which weakens the sealant. Eventually, condensation will penetrate the broken window seals and spread inside the two glass window panes creating an unsightly condensation build up. This is definitely a sign that you need new window seals or perhaps need to replace the entire window.

If you need to reseal your windows, you can do this yourself. That way, you won’t have to spend money on a professional to do the job for you. But, if you’re going to reseal your windows yourself, you’ll need the right equipment and a steady hand.

To begin, you’ll need to make sure you have a putty knife – a putty knife has a square end – to clear any broken sealant and the window gaskets in a smooth and steady motion. You could use a flat utility knife instead. Then, with somebody else holding it, carefully remove the glazing. From there, apply a little silicone caulking to the windows with a caulk gun – this is how you’ll stick everything back together. Removing a double glazed windows sash is even more difficult, so expect to require a professional’s help if you have sash windows or another window design that makes resealing more difficult. Casement windows are still tricky, but are much easier compared to others. If you have removable window panes, expect to remove nails and pins also during this stage, before installing them again once done.

Once you’ve carried out the process for the interior panel of the window, you can do the same for the external one, carefully sealing them back together. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? However, it can be a tricky process.

For a start, the double glazing units in most modern windows are quite heavy, meaning you need to be incredibly careful when you remove them to avoid chipping or cracking the glass, or even dropping them. The glass may have weakened over time, or become damp. This is a good time to inspect the glass and the entire window casing. You may need to change your window glass altogether.

If you have faulty window seals, replacing damaged double glazing is often better than resealing your double glazed windows. It’s an opportunity to invest in a fresh, modern design for your home that will be fully weatherproof and highly durable. New units have frames which won’t lose their shape, helping to protect the sealant underneath from deteriorating.

Double glazed windows are famed for their thermal insulation and energy efficiency, but this stands and falls on the integrity of the inert gas filled area between the glass panes, and this, in turn, relies on a 100% secure seal around the window’s framework.

In some scenarios, resealing double glazed windows might not be the best solution for your problems. If there’s an issue with the sealant and a broken seal, it could just be because your window has come to the end of its life. Over many years, older designs deteriorate and leave the sealant exposed. Even if you reseal the units, the sealant will still be vulnerable. Double glazed windows typically last for a 20-30 years, but beyond this, you shouldn’t expect much use out of them. Check your installer’s guarantee if you still have it for an idea about how long you should expect your old windows to last.

Doing it yourself comes with some risks. If anything goes wrong, you’ll forfeit the guarantee on your windows and won’t be covered by the warranties. Because of this, you should only reseal your windows if you have some experience and are certain you can do a good job.

Even asking an installer to reseal your double glazed windows could be problematic. First, there is the expense but also, it might not fix the problem for very long. If your windows are worn, then they could simply be failing to perform properly. All this means is that your home will become colder and less secure.

Replacing your double glazed windows could be a lot better than resealing them. With a brand-new design, you’ll get stunning uPVC windows with advanced double glazing that has an airtight seal against air and water. The sealant inside won’t fail for decades, and you won’t have to worry about maintaining your windows either!

Replacing your double glazed windows could be the best option for your home if you’re experiencing seal failure on your units. Even if the seal isn’t broken, your old windows are probably still letting you down in terms of thermal insulation, meaning your energy bills are higher than they should be. Older designs don’t have a lot of insulation, meaning that you could be relying on your home’s central heating far too much to stay warm.

With new windows, you can save money from day one and every day after that for many years. Rather than resealing your old windows, you could choose uPVC or aluminium windows that won’t fail you. These materials are robust and durable and the insulating glass units offer fantastic thermal performance for your home. You’ll be able to cut the cost of your heating bills and even reduce your carbon footprint.

Because the sealant in your windows won’t degrade, you’ll benefit in other ways too. Your windows will maintain their strength, meaning better security for your home especially as modern upgrades come with advanced multi-point locking mechanisms too, keeping intruders well away.

Not only that, but you’ll get a weatherproof window that will perform in the toughest of conditions. Your windows will look their best, come rain or shine even in the heaviest storms, with scratch-resistant material and optimal energy efficiency. Your new windows will last for decades, repaying the cost of your investment.

Instead of resealing your double glazed windows, the best option is to replace them in lots of cases. And, when you do it with Double Glazing On The Web, you’ll be able to make the change with change left over. Unlike a normal window company, we don’t charge inflated window prices. Instead, we point you to the people who offer the best rates in your area.

When you use our online calculator, you’ll be making contact with multiple companies in our trusted, UK-wide network. That way, you can get quality permanent double glazing and a made-to-measure installation from a business on your doorstep. So, that’s lower transport costs and shorter wait times, and all while you save money. Compare this with double glazing repairs.

And, with the companies in our network, you can choose double glazed windows with a difference for your home. That’s because you create your own bespoke design! You’ll be able to choose from a range of unique window styles, glazing options, colours, and finishes with stunning additions like gold handles to complete the look.What’s more, you can really rely on the companies we work with at Double Glazing On The Web. For your peace of mind, we constantly review our network, making sure we only partner with the best. Many of the companies in our network are also Checkatrade members and Which? Trusted Traders and all offer low double glazed windows prices.

If you’d like to find out more about why replacing might be better than resealing your double glazed windows, get in contact with us today!

Fill in our online contact form or call our friendly team on 0800 015 5679.

Resealing your double glazed windows may seem a quick and simple solution to a draughty issue, but it doesn’t deal with the underlying problems of older window designs. However, replacing your double glazed windows provides better performance, optimal security, and guarantees a warm and comfortable home. Connect with trusted professionals through Double Glazing On The Web where you can access fantastic replacement windows at competitive prices, ensuring that your property remains well-insulated and protected for years to come. Double glazing typically lasts for twenty to thirty years.

Resealing Double Glazing Windows: Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the sealant in double glazed windows normally last? 

The lifespan of double glazing sealant in your window seals varies depending on factors like the quality of the product, exposure to the elements, and the maintenance of the windows. Typically, double glazing sealant lasts 15-20 years although the sealant in repaired double glazing seals won’t last nearly as long as this.

Can I reseal my double glazed windows if they have wood frames? 

Wooden frames are susceptible to warping, twisting, and cracking and far more vulnerable than uPVC or aluminium equivalents. Degradation of a wooden window frame can expose the sealant, making it much more likely that the window seals fail, even after repair.

What are the signs that my double glazed windows need to be replaced instead of resealed? 

Some indications that your double glazed windows may need replacing include constant condensation between the panes, draughts even when the windows are shut, higher energy bills, and visible damage to the frames or glass. If your windows are 20 years plus in age then replacing them is often the most effective solution.

How much can I save on energy bills by changing my old double glazed windows for new energy-efficient ones? 

The amount you can save on heating bills will depend on factors like the size of your home, the number of windows, and their energy efficiency. However, typically, permanent double glazed windows reduce costs by around 20%.

How do I decide on the right company to update my double glazed windows? 

If you’re looking for an installer to replace your double glazed home windows, search for companies with a proven track record of good workmanship and solid customer reviews. Check for certifications like Checkatrade membership or Which? Trusted Trader status. You should always compare quotes from several double glazing companies; this will help you secure a competitive price for your new windows.