The majority of properties these days have double-glazing because of their many benefits, especially when compared to traditional single-paned windows. Double glazing in Glasgow can make a huge difference to how comfortable those cold Scottish winters can be.
Alongside improved home comfort and security, homeowners who switch to A-rated double-glazed windows typically enjoy energy savings of up to £140 and a much lowered household carbon footprint. But what happens when your double glazing starts to fail? Have you noticed draughty windows? Is it possible to fix broken double glazing? And how can you tell if your windows need repairs or replacement? Here’s everything you should know about double glazing repairs.
Reasons Double Glazing Windows Fail
Double-glazing is the more durable upgrade to single-pane windows. They have two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar, with the gap filled with inert gas (usually argon or krypton) for better insulation and can be designed within aluminium or upvc window frames.
Most high-quality double-glazed windows can last anywhere from 20 to 35 years when installed correctly. With appropriate maintenance routines, they may well exceed three decades.
There are instances when, either due to poor installation, breakage, deterioration, or lack of maintenance, double-paned windows fail or get blown.
Seal Breakdown
To provide an airtight and waterproof barrier indoors and outdoors, glazed windows are sealed using durable, yet flexible elastomers, usually uPVC. They’re designed to withstand the weather and UV light.
However, like most construction materials, window seals can break down with time and constant stress.
Usually, double-glazed windows can start showing signs of seal damage after 10 to 20 years. But they can also decline more quickly, depending on the installation quality and other environmental factors.
When seals wear, outside air can penetrate the window. The inert gas inside can also escape. All these can lead to condensation and insulation issues, reducing your home’s energy efficiency.
Extreme Temperature Changes
Modern window installations are designed to withstand extreme weather. But it doesn’t mean they’re completely invulnerable.
If you live in an area with frequent fluctuating temperatures, your windows can undergo cycles of contraction and expansion. This repeated movement can loosen the seals holding the panes, causing cracks and gaps to appear.
Windows exposed to prolonged direct sunlight are especially vulnerable.
Outside moisture is just as much of an issue, though. Exposure to dampness, such as from water sprinklers or humid climates, can wear down the seal around the window.
Weather aside, most buildings naturally move over time.
The soil and foundation of your home don’t stay where they are. They settle, shift, contract, or expand, and could twist or alter window frames, putting stress on the structure.
Poor Window Installation
Double and triple-glazed windows are a significant investment. Proper installation is key to avoiding expensive repairs down the line.
Common installation problems homeowners face include:
- Incorrect window structure levelling
- Uneven support around the frame
- Poor alignment that causes twisting or stress
Poor drainage systems around your windows can also lead to problematic moisture buildup.
Unlike gradual weather or age-related issues, bad installation leads to much faster deterioration. You can be looking at a costly repair within just a few years after fitting your double glazing.
This is why choosing a reliable fitter is crucial.
Manufacturing Defects
While uncommon, manufacturing defects can cause double-paned windows to fail.
Manufacturing insulated glass requires precision, from sealing to gas-filling. One mistake can compromise the integrity of the window.
Potential defects include substandard sealant, incomplete sealing, insufficient inert gas between panes, and low-quality spacers.
Fixing Failed Double Glazing Windows
Fortunately, fixing a failing or blown double-paned window is possible and is often the more cost-effective choice. A lot of the problems homeowners face with double glazing can be fixed.
There are several reasons why a double-paned window can fail.
Our professionals will assess the underlying cause of the issue, the extent of damage, what needs to be done to fix it, and whether you need to replace the entire window frame.
If your window has a damaged or deteriorated seal, your glazier can reseal or replace the rubber gasket. They’ll remove the old, clean the frame, and install new, high-quality sealant.
For more serious issues, such as blown or misted windows, you may need to replace the insulated glass unit (IGU). The technician disassembles the failed glass from the frame and fits a new sealed pane.
It doesn’t replace the entire frame, which makes it cheaper than buying a new window entirely. The same goes for broken or cracked panes.
Sometimes, issues can come from the window’s moving components. Hinges, handles, and locks can age, deteriorate, and affect energy efficiency. A glazier can simply replace, secure, or lubricate these parts.
Unless they’re rotting or severely warped, skilled technicians can realign double-glazing frames as well.
How Much Does Double-Glazed Window Repair Cost?
This depends on the nature of your window’s problem.
In Scotland, replacing a blown or misted insulated glass unit is a popular and cost-effective option, with some estimates averaging £50 to £250 per unit. The size, glass type, and window type can affect the overall cost.
Still, that’s significantly more affordable than buying a new £450 to £1,200 frame and pane. You’ll have to pay for installation, too.
Needless to say, minor repairs, like fixing damaged seals, hinges, and handles, are significantly cheaper.
Always choose a trusted glazier, whether for repair or fitting. Ideally, find companies that specialise and have extensive experience in maintaining and repairing double-glazing windows.
Keep in mind that the cheapest quotes aren’t always the best. Compare prices to match your budget, and be sure to ask about their guarantee.
For windows fitted less than 10 years ago, don’t forget to check if the warranty is still in effect. If you’re lucky, your installer may cover the repairs and expenses.
Can You Fix Your Glazed Windows Yourself?
Although there are double-glazing window issues you can fix yourself, hiring a professional repair service is often a lot less time-consuming.
Proper tools and expertise are needed, especially when dealing with fragile and potentially hazardous materials.
Entrusting the repairs to experienced technicians also ensures you don’t accidentally damage the unit, which can result in greater repair costs on your end.
Time and money aside, glazier repair companies typically carry insurance, adding another layer of protection to homeowners.
A licensed technician will ensure all seals are airtight, frames are aligned, and the entire unit is securely fitted. This way, your household remains energy efficient.
What Are the Signs of Failing Double Glazing?
When a double-glazed window is broken, it will exhibit clear signs you can identify. If you notice any of the following, they may indicate that your window is failing:
- Visible condensation: Misting means the IGU or the gas cavity may be compromised. It can appear as a cloudy or hazy fog that trickles into water droplets inside the window’s gas cavity.
- Cold spots and drafts: Cold spots indoors, especially near windows, could indicate a serious insulation problem. Drafts can mean improperly fitted or twisted frames, as well as cracks or broken panes.
- Poor noise dampening: Double-glazed windows can reduce sound levels by 25 to 35 decibels. While not completely soundproof, they work well at dampening everyday outdoor noises.
- Visible rusts and rotting: Rusty hinges and locks can hinder proper window operation. If you find that some mechanical parts are beginning to oxidise, you may want to call for a replacement.
Another indirect, but no less significant, sign of failing glazed windows is an increase in your energy bills. A sharp uptick in your heating costs can mean more heat is escaping, severely impacting efficiency.
Major glazing issues not only lead to moisture. They can also invite mould inside your home, which can be dangerous to your family’s health and wellbeing.
Family members suffering from respiratory illnesses and allergies are particularly vulnerable.
Bottom Line: When Do You Need New Windows?
It’s worth noting that, depending on the severity of damage, repairing may not be a long-term solution.
For windows aged 15 to 20 years, for instance, replacing them might be more cost-effective in the long run than constantly repairing them. Old units can also pose a security risk for your property.
Rotting and moulds, as well as severely warped and pitted frames, are all strong signs to invest in a new double-glazed window.
Upgrading your double glazing units might also help, with aluminium window frames, for example, which are often more robust than their upvc counterparts.
If you’re thinking of repairing or upgrading to double glazing in your home, contact MLR Maintenance and talk to one of our expert technicians today!