How To Fix Blown Windows

Is misted fog inside your double-glazed window blocking your view and not going away? There’s a high chance you have misted windows (also known as ‘blown windows’).

While double glazing is excellent for improving your home’s energy efficiency, the seal between the glass panes can sometimes fail over time. This handy guide will explain what causes blown windows, how they can be fixed, and how to restore your home’s comfort and efficiency.

What Causes Blown Double Glazing? – Advice from Misted Window Repairs Glasgow Experts

Double glazing windows consist of two panes of glass that have a sealed space between them. The space between the two window panes is typically sealed with air or an insulating gas like argon.

If the seal around the edges breaks down over time, moisture can work its way into the cavity to create condensation, which doesn’t go away.

The seal might break for a variety of different reasons:

• Natural ageing or wear and tear
• Poorly installed windows 
• Manufacturing defects 
• DIY damages
• Weather and sunlight

Scotland’s wild weather can also put more stress on your window seals, causing damages. Windows that face the sun can also be prone to deterioration from the UV light which can break down the seal at a faster rate which can break down the seal.

Signs Your Double-Glazed Window Is Blown or Misted

Misted or blown windows cause heat loss, which can cause your energy bills to go through the roof. To save yourself from the costs piling it, it is important to spot misted double glazing as soon as possible.

If you have condensation between the panes that doesn’t disappear after wiping, it is a clear sign you need misted window repairs. Sometimes the mist disappears which temperature changes. However, as the double glazing condensation is trapped, it will inevitably return.

If the water can be wiped away, the condensation has formed on the inside of your windows (rather than the inside of your glass panes). Learn how to get rid of condensation inside of windows in our handy guide.

Sometimes you might be able to see actual water droplets forming from the condensation inside. Other times, your window view may appear cloudy and milky, or have a dirty appearance that won’t go away with a thorough clean.

DIY Options to Fix or Prevent Blown Windows

There are a few DIY fixes you can try, but these only offer short-term relief and won’t solve the problem of lost energy efficiency. That’s why repair or replacement is highly advisable to keep your energy bills low.

Also, if your windows are still under warrantee, reframe from any DIY methods as it may be voided.

However, if you’d like to understand what’s possible, here are the DIY options:

Drilling and Desiccant Method

Some people, and some poor repair companies, try to fix blown double-glazing by drilling holes into the window unit and putting moisture-absorbing materials inside. Once done, these hole are resealed with silicone to prevent moisture from coming back.

However, this approach is not a permanent fix. And sometimes, the fogginess can return in a matter of weeks! This is because the seal remains broken, so it will continue to let in moisture.

It is also incredibly risky, and you may damage the glass from drilling. If your glass is under warranty, it can void your protection. This is why we never advise trying this DIY method yourself, and always avoid repair companies that offer this as their solution.

Reinforcing Window Seals Before Misted Double Glazing Occurs

For windows where the seals are showing signs of wear and tear, you can try reinforcing them with new perimeter seals. This can help improve your window’s performance and extend its lifespan, but it won’t resolve any condensation issues that have already occurred.

Professional Solutions for Blown Double Glazing

For a long lasting and effective solution to repair blown double-glazed windows, professional repairs occur a lasting result with fantastic value.

Replacing the Glass Unit Only

The most cost-effective fix is replacing the glass unit while restoring the seal.

This keeps your existing window frame and matches a new glass panel to fit the size of the window area.

When our glazing specialists carry out this job, we begin by precisely measuring your current unit to ensure an exact fit. We then carefully remove the beading around the frame, extract the failed double-glazed unit, and install a new one with fully functioning seals. Finally, we reapply the beading and check the double glazed unit is sealed correctly to leave you with a window that looks and performs like new.

Not only will this restore the energy efficiency of your home, but it will also help prolong your window’s lifespan.

Full Window Replacement

Sometimes, the best way to fix blown double glazing is to replace the window unit. If the window frame is damaged, warped, or very old, our team will let you know that it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire window unit instead.

In these instances, full replacement costs can actually work out cheaper than repairing the existing unit now and having to replace it again later.

At Totalseal Repairs, we value honesty and transparency. Our goal is always to give you the best advice so you can make the right decision for your home.

When to Call a Professional for Blown Double-Glazed Window Repairs

Unsure whether you need entirely new windows or a cheaper glass replacement? Contact our trusted team of window repair professionals. We will thoroughly assess your situation and give you the confidence to make an informed decision.

In the circumstances when replacing a blown window’s glass panel is more cost-effective, our team will happily provide the repair with expert precision and care.

For more information or a free quote, contact our Glasgow team today on 0141 280 4089.