So You've Bought Repairing Double Glazing ... Now What? How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows

Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.

Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in some instances. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix it quickly and efficiently.

It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home using just some tools and materials. To begin, take out all loose pieces of broken glass. Make sure you wear gloves when doing this, as any broken glass may contain dangerous fragments. Once the broken glass is removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame of the window.

Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help of a wire brush. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame, and seal the gap between the frames.

Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type then you'll need use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. Once the stop is removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the outside of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.

Leaking Seals

Seals around the frame are likely to be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills because windows won't be as effective as they once were.

Luckily, there are warning signs that you can be aware of to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires resealing. There may be condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.

The simplest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However, this is a difficult job that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass company to complete this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and not harm the glass.

You may be able to repair double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and could leak again. But, it's worthwhile if there is no other options.

The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail over time. This can be due to age, environmental conditions or the way your windows are installed. When this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.

A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. You'll feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can be able to seep into. In certain cases this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, although this isn't as common.

Condensation

Double glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for those who are trying to reduce energy costs and improve their home's insulation. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require maintenance from time to time.

Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood decay.

Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's usually not a issue, but you should clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from setting in.

But condensation isn't always the sign of a failing seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could be leaking. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can get worn out over time. The rubber seals can be worn out over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows repaired promptly in the event that you observe any signs of misting or condensation.

A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into place. They will then push hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.

Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repair s. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.

Frame Fragment Damage

If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.


Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or due to injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which is not something you'd want to do on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.

Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could result from a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural issue such as warping. Depending on the severity, it could be simple to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.

The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.

The good part is that you can repair these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will allow you to follow-up with any issues that may arise.