Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs

Double glazing can keep a home warm but it is susceptible to problems as time passes. Broken glass, leaks, or foggy windows are all issues that can lead to the loss of energy, costly repairs, and health issues.

FENSA certified installers can assist you repair and maintain your double-glazed windows to meet the energy efficiency requirements for legal compliance and potential resale value.

Broken Panes

A broken window could be a major issue, blocking light, air and possibly even pests from getting into your home. You can hire a professional to repair the damaged window, but you can also do it yourself for a fraction of what a professional would charge.

You'll have to remove the old window. To safeguard yourself from glass dust and lead shards, wear protective glasses, gloves and a mask. Install a sturdy surface in an area that is well ventilated. It is also recommended to place an area of drop cloth beneath the work area to catch loose glass that is being removed. It is a good idea to have a HEPA vacuum close by to remove dust, debris, and hazardous waste as you work.

After the window has been removed and the old window is removed, use a knife to scrape away the old glazing putty. Be careful not to damage the wood frame of the window. If the old putty seems particularly stubborn, try using a heating gun to soften it before scraping it off with the knife. Be sure to wear safety glasses when working with a heating gun, and be cautious to avoid putting hot wood shards or glass shards in your eyes.


The next step is to prepare the frame for the new pane. Measure the opening, and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to allow for expansion and contraction of the wood. Your local hardware store will cut the double strength glass to fit the opening exactly. Before you install the new glass dry-fit it for a snug fit.

After you've installed the new glass then apply a small amount of latex caulk to the perimeter of the opening for the weather seal. Then, put in the glazing points to keep the new pane in the proper position. For standard sizes of window glass, you will only need to install two points per edge.

Once the new glazing compound has dried, you can paint it over to match the frame. If you're worried about the risk of cracks then you can apply a heavy-duty strip of masking tape in order to keep superficial cracks from getting worse.

Frames that are damaged

The first thing you need to do is look over the frame. You'll need to have it fixed professionally in the event of cracks, rust or corrosion, or if the frame is broken into two pieces. Metal frames cannot be joined and any attempts to weld or solder them will result in permanent damage.

If the frame is not damaged, you can use a small brush and some detergent for conservation or water to wash the frame carefully. This will eliminate any grease, dirt, or dust that may have accumulated over time. Careful cleaning of antique frames with ornate carving or gesso will often reveal the gleaming original finish underneath the layers of dust.

If the frame has been damaged, you will need needle-nose pliers and a flat surface, wood putty, sandpaper and a small clamp. Start by getting rid of the glass, picture and back of the frame. Carefully pull the frame apart at the corners where you see nails or brads. Remove the joints and open them up. any old glue. Apply new glue.

Loose Compound

The glazing compound used to secure the glass panes within their wooden frames is a crucial component of the energy efficiency of any building. It seals wood, binds glass to frame, and sheds water to prevent damage from water over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound cause air infiltration, which reduces the insulation value and can increase the cost of utility. Keeping up with repair work on your double-glazed windows will help keep them running smoothly and efficiently.

If you notice that there are drafts around the edges of your window frames the weatherstripping seal could be worn or loose. Replacing the seal can reduce the energy costs and improves comfort. If you hear loud sounds from outside, such as machinery and traffic it could be a sign that the glazing tape is damaged or is missing.

Remove the old tape and scrub the frame edge thoroughly. Apply a piece of fresh tape to the frame edge and press firmly. It's available at any hardware store, and it's a cheap way to improve the performance of double-glazed windows.

While the standard super glues are great for bonding metal, wood and other common materials, they're not ideal for use on glass-based surfaces. Choose a glass-based adhesive such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This kind of adhesive is designed to withstand moisture and UV light, making it a good option for repairing double glazed windows.

Before you begin repairing your windows, you'll want to clean the the frame and sash with a degreaser to ensure the new glue is able to stick. Prepare the area to be glazed using an oil-based primer. Prime the entire area including the back of sash, where it rests within the frame.

While you can fix many problems with double-glazed windows, if they're badly damaged or do not offer adequate insulation, replacing them could be the best option. Talk to a glazier who is experienced or handyman to help you make the right choice. Regular maintenance and repairs can keep your windows looking great for many years.

Foggy Panes

Foggy windows occur when the window seal is damaged and allows air to get between the glass panes and slowly build up moisture. Foggy windows can cause many problems, from condensation and calcium deposits to black staining and fungus. Apart from being ugly it also leads to lower efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, canvey-island Window Glazier and Glazing can be fixed. Foggy windows are usually caused by a simple water buildup, so the first step is to get rid of as much moisture as is possible. This can be accomplished by applying a defogging spray or shaving cream. If none of these solutions work, it's time to get an expert.

The reason double pane windows function is due to the space between them. The space is typically filled with argon and krypton which are non-toxic gases that are more dense than air and can slow heat transfer even further. If the gas has leaking out, your windows aren't insulated properly. Replace your windows with IGUs to stop the fogging and increase your home's efficiency.

Some homeowners believe that they must replace the entire window when the fogging happens, but this isn't always the case. Some glass shops offer to replace the insulation unit (IGU) only, and without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a less expensive option that's just as effective in fixing your windows.

Although there are DIY solutions to avoid window condensation, like shaving gel or defogging lotion, it's best to call an expert to ensure that the job is done safely and in a correct manner. A window repair professional will make holes in the glass and then inject an cleaning solution into the space between the panes. The window repair specialist will clean the dirty surface and dry the interior to restore the appearance and functionality of the window. Contact a local window replacement or repair expert to learn more about the process or schedule a no-pressure in-home consultation today.