Did you know that while double glazing remains one of the most energy-efficient windows and doors, it can also develop problems along the line? These issues not only cost thousands per year in wasted energy but also create an uncomfortable working environment.
The good news is most double glazing problems can be fixed by either replacing certain components or doing a full window replacement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify common double glazing problems in buildings and the steps to remedy them before they cause real damage.
According to our guide on how long windows last, the average double-glazed unit has a life span of 10–35 years before needing replacement. However, continuous usage can cause your windows or doors to develop faults earlier. These problems can include condensation, drafts, noise, and fogging or frosting.
If you notice condensation or water droplets forming in between the two panes of glass, it means the airtight seal has broken. This allows warm, moist air to penetrate the unit and condense. Not only does this obscure your view and let in less light, but the trapped moisture can lead to the growth of mould and damage the entire window, frame or sill.
Check out our guide on how to get rid of condensation between double-glazed windows for potential fixes.
The presence of noticeable drafts (unwanted air coming in), especially around the edges of windows, often means the seals or gaskets have perished or shrunk, creating gaps for air infiltration. This results in uncomfortable working conditions and higher energy bills and can even lead to structural damage over time.
When soundproofing is compromised due to failing window seals, outside noise will easily pass through to the interior. Traffic, loud machinery and other ambient sounds will disrupt concentration and productivity among employees/staff.
If double glazing units are no longer properly insulating, the temperature difference between indoor and outdoor double glazing panes can lead to excessive fogging, frosting and even ice build-up. This obscures natural light, reduces visibility and fresh air, and causes major energy loss.
So, how do you fix these common problems with uPVC windows before they become a major issue? Keep reading to discover simple troubleshooting suggestions.
uPVC window problems are an office manager’s nightmare; not only can they disrupt productivity at work, but they can also prove costly if left unattended. But don’t panic just yet; there are several solutions you can try to fix common double glazing issues before resorting to a full replacement. These include sealing or replacing weatherstripping, replacing glazing tape, and reglazing or refurbishing the windows.
If there are drafts, air leaks, or moisture getting in around the edges of the window frame, the weatherstripping seal has likely worn out or come loose. Weatherstripping, also known as a window seal or glazing seal, is the insulation around the edges of the window and door frames that helps keep air and water out.
Replacing damaged or worn-out weatherstripping is an easy fix that can improve energy efficiency. You can find weatherstripping kits at any hardware store, or better still, contact a glazing expert.
Glazing tape is the sticky tape around the edges of the glass panels that adhere to the window frame. If you notice the glass rattling, slipping or becoming loose in the frame, the glazing tape may need to be re-secured or replaced.
Remove the existing tape with a putty knife or chisel and clean the area. Apply new glazing tape around the edges of the glass and press firmly onto the frame to secure the glass in place.
If there are cracks, holes or gaps in the seal between the glass panes and the window or door frame, it’s time to reglaze your windows. Reglazing involves removing the damaged glazing compound, cleaning the area, and applying new glazing to securely seal and weatherproof the glass to the frame. For small cracks, you can apply glazing compound or glazing tape; for more extensive damage, it may be best to hire a glazing replacement expert to ensure it’s done properly.
Double-glazed window problems can significantly impact energy efficiency, temperature control, and the air quality in your building. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions for fixing common double glazing issues before having to completely replace your windows. But at what point exactly do you need a complete window replacement? Read on to find out.
Double glazing is a great way to improve energy efficiency in offices, but the seals and glass can deteriorate over time. When issues arise, it can be difficult to determine whether double glazing repairs or a full replacement is needed. As a general rule of thumb, if problems with double-glazed windows are minor, repair is probably sufficient; for more serious issues, replacement may be required to avoid potential disasters.
Here are different 3 scenarios when you should opt for double glazing repair services:
In the following 4 cases, repairs may not cut it, so replacing the entire window may be the way to go:
Whenever you experience problems with double glazing windows, assess them carefully to determine whether repair or replacement is the best solution. For minor problems, a repair can save money and restore performance; for more serious damage or ageing windows, replacement may be required to avoid problems down the road and keep your office at maximum efficiency and comfort. The choice ultimately comes down to which option will provide the best long-term value.
As you’ll notice in this guide and other publications, the terms “double glazing” and “uPVC” are used interchangeably; however, they refer to different aspects of a window. Double glazing involves the fusion of two glass panes for insulation and noise reduction, while uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) denotes a durable plastic used for window and door frames.
The main difference lies in their functions. Double glazing enhances thermal efficiency—keeping your office warmer in winter and cooler in summer—and reduces noise pollution. On the other hand, uPVC offers structural durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness for your windows.
In terms of similarities, both are popular for modern office buildings due to their energy efficiency. They can reduce heating bills and increase comfort. When used together, they excel in reducing external noise and boosting office productivity. So, if a glazier refers to a double-glazed window as uPVC, it’s likely due to the window’s structural reinforcement with uPVC.
Cold air might be seeping through your double-glazed windows due to failed seals. These seals, crucial for securing each glass pane, may have sustained damage over time, causing a breach in the insulation, hence permitting chilly drafts to infiltrate your building. Regular inspection and timely repairs can prevent such issues.
Yes, if condensation is forming between the panes of your double-glazed window, it’s a strong indicator that the seal has failed. This seal breach often results in moisture infiltrating the space between the glass, leading to condensation. Replacement of broken seals should be considered in such cases.
Double-glazed windows typically have a lifespan of around 20 years. However, this can fluctuate between 10 and 35 years and is contingent on the quality of materials used, the installation process, air temperature, and the windows’ location. Therefore, regular maintenance is key to ensuring their longevity.
While it’s technically possible to repair failed double glazing by renewing the seal, it’s not generally recommended. This fix won’t address the misting or condensation already within the panes, so it’s often more beneficial to replace the entire window.
Double glazing problems reduce the efficiency of your window and door units, so it’s important to take proactive steps to resolve them before they become major issues. We recommend having your double glazing windows inspected regularly for signs of seal failure or broken glass.
In cases where temperatures start to drop consistently or noise pollution increases, it’s possibly time for a replacement. Hiring a glazing professional to replace faulty double glazing may seem like an expense you want to avoid, but it will save you money and hassle in the long run.
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