UPVC Double Glazing repair

Cautious_Optimist

Is it worth getting seals replaced on UPVC double glazing?

Or should I just wait and get the them replaced completely?

Windows about 15-20 years old.
Rubber seals are shrunken and brittle.
No internal misting of glazing though.

Thanks.

Furts

I would leave this until the windows, or sealed units, need replacing. But my concern would be drafts. It is likely the seals have shrunk on both sides of the panes and the wind may be getting in. If so, I suggest brown acrylic frame sealant - black is not available. Black, or clear, is available in silicone type sealants but this will be more difficult to remove should you be changing the sealed units.

I would not recommend decorators caulk, but it would be your decision on sealants depending on your colour preference.

cyclonebri1

Yes as furts say's, leave well alone, if they haven't misted after 20 years they were well fitted.

My only other thought would be polyurethane sealant if it's needed, but go round carefully with a candle on a windy day to see if you can pinpoint any leaks, more likely to be leaking where the sash meets the frame though in my view, may be able to adjust that out.

Mine have been fitted 18 years, they haven't broken up but must have been stretched on fitting as they have pulled apart at the joints, but no discernible drafts.

And lastly it's easy enough to replace them if you eventually have too, but there are dozens of variations to the seal shape, ebay is a good source, many suppliers showing detailed dimensions.:)

Cautious_Optimist

Thanks for the replies.
There are now a few companies offering to replace and repair double glazing seals etc. Obviously as an alternative to replacing the whole windows.
Has anyone used one of these glazing repair companies?

I don't really mind about drafts, but some water is leaking through the front door when it rains heavily (faces west, very exposed).

cyclonebri1

Yes of course they will, but check out the prices.

If you or someone you now is relatively handy, it's a simple job, but as said you need to identify the actual seal type and it will be different from door to window to door most likely.

Furts

Cautious_Optimist wrote: »

Thanks for the replies.
There are now a few companies offering to replace and repair double glazing seals etc. Obviously as an alternative to replacing the whole windows.
Has anyone used one of these glazing repair companies?

I don't really mind about drafts, but some water is leaking through the front door when it rains heavily (faces west, very exposed).

Often these leaks can be easily remedied on a DIY basis.

Have you a panel set into your door below mid rail height? If the leak is past these seals black silicone sealant will seal this.

A leak at the base of the door is often because there is either no weatherbar fixed on the face - so buy one and fix it on, or it has been screwed on but not sealed with white silicone sealant - so apply a silicone bead to seal it.

If rain is getting past the sides of the door and onto the frame, then this should have drainage slots, or concealed drainage - have you checked these are not blocked? If they blocked are poke them out with a bit of wire, or use a blunt knife blade for concealed drainage.