Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs

Double glazing keeps buildings toasty but can develop problems over time. Leaking, broken glass or foggy windows are all problems that can lead to energy loss, expensive repairs and health issues.


FENSA certified installers can assist you repair and maintain your double glazing to meet the energy efficiency standards for legal compliance and resale value.

Broken Panes

A broken window can create a lot of problems, as it could block air, light and even insects. While you may engage a professional to repair the broken pane however, you could also fix the problem yourself for only a fraction of the cost.

To accomplish this, you will need to remove the old pane. To protect yourself from glass dust and lead shards, wear protective glasses as well as gloves and a mask. Set up a stable surface in an area that is well ventilated. You should also place a drop cloth underneath the work area to catch any loose glass when it is removed. It is recommended to keep a HEPA vacuum close by to clean dust, debris and hazardous waste while you work.

Once the old window is removed using a utility knife, you can use it to scrape off the old glazing putty. Be careful not to damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty is particularly difficult to remove, you could try using a heat gun to soften it prior to scraping it off with the knife. Make sure you wear safety glasses when using a heat gun, and take care to avoid getting hot wood shards or glass pieces in your eyes.

Then, you need to prepare the frame to receive the new pane. Take measurements of the opening and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to allow for expansion and contraction of the wood. The hardware store in your area can cut the double strength glass to fit the opening exactly. Dry-fit the new glass to ensure it fits perfectly before installing.

Once you have the glass in place, apply a small bead of caulk made from latex around the edges of the opening to create a weather-proof seal. Install the glazing points next to secure the new glass. Generally, you only need two points along each edge for typical sizes of window glass.

Once the new glazing compound has dried and dried, you can paint over it to match the frame. If you're concerned about the potential for cracks, you can apply a strong strip of masking tape to keep superficial cracks from worsening.

Frames that are damaged

You should inspect the frame first. It is necessary to have it fixed professionally if there are cracks or corrosion or rust, or if the frame has broken into two pieces. Metal frames cannot be glued together, and attempting to solder or weld them yourself will cause permanent damage.

If the frame hasn't been damaged too badly, you can clean it with a tiny brush, some detergent for conservation and water. This will get rid of any grease, dirt or dust that may have accumulated through the years. Cleaning the frames of your antique with intricate carvings or gesso can reveal the gleaming original finish underneath the layers of dust.

If the frame is damaged, you will require a pair needle-nosed pliers and sandpaper as well an adjustable clamp. Take off the back, the photo and the glass of the frame. Take care to break the frame at the corners, where you'll see brads or nails. If winchester Emergency Glazier can, open the joints and scrape out any glue that has been used and apply fresh glue.

Loose Compound

The glazing compound that holds the glass panes within their wooden frames is a crucial element of the energy efficiency of any historic building. It seals the wood, binds the glass to the frame and sheds moisture to stop water damage over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound cause air infiltration, which lowers insulation and raises the cost of utility. Making sure you are keeping up with repairs on double-glazed windows can help keep them operating smoothly and efficiently.

If you notice drafts around the edges of your window frames The weatherstripping seal might be worn or loose. Replacing this seal will reduce the energy costs and improves the comfort of your home. If you hear loud noises from outside, like machinery and traffic, it could also indicate that the glazing tape is worn out or missing.

Remove the old tape from the edge of the frame and clean the area thoroughly. Apply a piece of fresh tape to the frame's edge and press it down. You can purchase this at any hardware store, and it's an inexpensive option to boost the performance of your double-glazed windows.

While regular super glues are great to bond metal, wood and other common materials, they aren't suitable for glass-based surfaces. Choose a glass-based adhesive such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue is made to resist UV light and moisture and is a better option for repairing double-glazed windows.

Before you start repairing your windows, you'll need to clean the the frame and sash using a degreaser to ensure that the new glue sticks properly. Then prepare the area that will be glazed by priming it with an oil-based primer. Make sure to prime the entire area, including the back of the sash, where it rests within the frame.

You can repair most double-glazed window problems however, if the windows are severely damaged or do not provide enough insulation, replacement may be the best choice. Get a professional glazier or handyman to make the best decision. Regular maintenance and repairs will keep your windows looking great for many years.

Foggy Panes

Foggy windows occur when the window seal fails. This allows air to get in and slowly build up moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can cause many issues, from calcium deposits and condensation to black stains or fungus. In addition to looking ugly and causing a decrease in efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. However, it is possible to correct the issue. Foggy windows are usually caused by a simple water buildup, so the initial step is to remove as much moisture as you can. This can be done by applying a defogging spray or shaving cream. If these solutions do not help, it is time to call a professional.

The reason double pane windows function is due to the space between them. This space is filled with argon, or krypton. These non-toxic gasses are much more dense than air and have a slower heat transfer. If the gas is leaking out, your windows aren't properly insulated. Replacing your windows with new IGUs will not only stop the fogging issue, but will also boost your home's energy efficiency also.

Many homeowners believe that they need to replace their entire window when it gets foggy, but this isn't always the case. Some glass shops will replace the insulating unit (IGU) only, without replacing the entire frame or the sash. This is a cheaper solution and is just as efficient in fixing your windows.

While there are some DIY solutions for window condensation, like shaving cream or defogging spray but it is advised to contact a professional to make sure the task is done correctly and safely. A window repair expert 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. Contact an expert in your area for window replacement and repair expert to find out more about the process and request a free in-home consultation today.