Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs

Double glazing can keep a home toasty but can develop problems as time passes. Broken glass, leaks, or foggy windows are all problems which can cause energy loss, expensive repairs and health problems.

FENSA certified installers can assist you maintain and repair your double glazing to ensure that it meets energy efficiency requirements to ensure compliance with the law and resale value.

Broken Panes


A broken window can create a lot of problems, as it can hinder airflow, light, and even pests. While you can certainly employ a professional to fix the damaged window, it's also possible to repair the damage yourself at less than the cost.

To do this, you'll have to take off the old pane. To shield yourself from lead and glass dust shards, put on safety glasses, gloves and a mask. Install a sturdy work surface in a well-ventilated area. You should also place a drop cloth under the work area to catch any loose glass as it is removed. It is recommended to have a HEPA vacuum close by to clean dust, debris and hazardous waste while you work.

Make use of a utility knife to scrape the old glazing putty off once the old window is removed. Be careful not to damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty seems particularly difficult to remove, you could use a heat gun to soften it before scraping it off using the knife. Be sure to wear safety goggles when working with a heat gun, and be cautious to avoid getting any hot wood or glass fragments in your eyes.

lewisham Glazier and Glazing is to prepare the frame for the new pane. Measure the opening and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to account for expansion and contraction of the wood. The local hardware store will cut the double strength glass to fit the opening exactly. Dry-fit the glass to ensure it fits perfectly before putting it in.

After you've installed the new glass and a little of latex caulk to the opening's perimeter for an airtight seal. Install the glazing points to secure the new pane. In general, you will only require two points along each edge for windows of standard sizes.

When the new glaze compound dries and is dry, you can paint it to match the rest. If you're concerned about the potential for cracks then you can apply a strong strip of masking tape to prevent superficial cracks from getting worse.

Frames that are damaged

The first thing to do is examine the frame. If there are cracks, rust or corrosion or the frame has broken into two separate pieces you will need to take it to a professional repair. Metal frames aren't able to be glued together and attempting to solder or weld them yourself will cause permanent damage.

If the frame isn't damaged, you can make use of a small brush and some detergent for conservation or water to clean the frame with care. This will remove any grease, dust or dirt that has built up over time. Cleaning the frames of your antique with intricate carvings or gesso often reveals the original shine beneath the layers of dust.

If the frame is damaged, you'll require a pair needle-nosed pliers, wood glue and sandpaper, as well with a small clamp. Begin by getting rid of the glass, picture and back of the frame. The frame should be removed at the corners, where you will see the nails or brads. If you can, open the joints, scrape off any old glue and apply new glue.

Loose Compound

The glazing compound that holds glass window panes in their wooden frames is an essential part of any historic building's energy efficiency. It seals wood, binds glass to frame, and sheds water to protect it from water over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound can cause air infiltration, which reduces insulation and raises utility bills. Keeping up with repair work on double-glazed windows can help keep them running smoothly and efficiently.

The weatherstripping could be worn out or loose if you notice drafts in the window frames. Replacing this seal reduces the energy costs and improves comfort. If you hear loud noises from outside, such as machinery or traffic It could also mean that the glazing tape is damaged or is missing.

Remove the old tape from the frame's edge and thoroughly clean the frame. Apply a new piece tape to the edge of the frame and press it down firmly. You can buy this at any hardware store, and it's a cheap method to increase the performance of double-glazed windows.

While the standard super glues are great for bonding wood, metal and other common materials, they aren't suitable for use on glass-based surfaces. Look for a glass based adhesive like Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This kind of adhesive is made to resist moisture and UV light making it a great option for repairing double glazed windows.

Before you begin repairing your windows, it is best to clean the the frame and sash by using a degreaser to ensure that the new glue is able to stick. Then prepare the area to be coated by applying an oil-based primer. Make sure to prime the entire surface, including the back of the sash, where it rests within the frame.

It is possible to repair most double-glazed windows however, if the windows are severely damaged, or if they are no longer able to provide sufficient insulation, replacing them may be your best option. Get a professional glazier or handyperson to help you make the right choice. Regular inspection and repair of your windows will help them look their best and run smoothly for many years to come.

Foggy Panes

Foggy windows occur when the window seal fails to seal. This allows air to get in and slowly build up moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can cause a variety of problems, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black stains or fungus. In addition to being unsightly, it also causes reduced energy efficiency and higher heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, the problem can be fixed. Foggy windows can be caused by an easy buildup of moisture and the first step is to remove as much moisture as possible. This can be done by applying a defogging spray or by applying shaving cream. If none of these methods work then it's time to contact a professional.

Double pane windows are able to function because of the space between them. This space is filled argon, or krypton. These non-toxic gases are more dense than air and can slow heat transfer. If the gas has leaking out, your windows aren't adequately insulated. Installing new windows and replacing them with IGUs will not only eliminate the fogging, but also improve your home's energy efficiency too.

Many homeowners believe that they have to replace their entire window if it becomes foggy, but this isn't always the case. Some glass shops will replace the insulation unit (IGU) only, and without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a cheaper solution and could be equally efficient in fixing your windows.

Although there are some DIY ways to stop window condensation, such as defogging cream or shaving gel It is recommended to contact an expert to ensure that the job is done safely and in a correct manner. A window repair professional will first drill holes into the glass and then inject cleaning solution between the panes. The window repair specialist will scrub the surface and dry the inside, restoring the appearance and functionality of the window. To find out more about this procedure, or to arrange a no-pressure in-home consultation, call a local expert in window replacement and repairs.