Double glazed windows have two panes of glass with space between them. This makes the windows better at keeping heat inside your home. But over time, double glazed windows can break and need repairs. This article explains common double glazing repairs, what makes them cost more or less money, and typical prices you will pay.

Double glazed windows are nice to have, but what happens when they get damaged and need repairs? This can get costly depending on a lot of things. Let’s look at what the repairs are, what makes them expensive, and rough costs so you know what to budget for getting your windows fixed up.

Related: Best Glass for Double Glazing

What Repairs Do Double Glazed Windows Often Need?

There are a handful of common repairs people tend to need over the many years double glazed windows are used:

  • Replacing the glass panes – Sometimes the seal around the glass breaks, and the air between panes leaks out. Then you’ll need to replace the unit with new glass inside the window frame.
  • Fixing broken handles and hinges – With frequent opening and closing, handles and opening mechanisms can loosen or break over time.
  • Replacing weather seals – The seals and strips around the window prevent air leaks and moisture from getting in. If damaged, these seals will need replacing.

Related: How Double Glazing Repairs?

What Makes Some Repairs More Expensive Than Others?

Double glazing repairs costs vary a lot depending on these key things:

  • Hard to reach windows – Using scaffolding or lifts to reach upstairs windows adds more labour and rental costs.
  • Large windows – Big picture windows or skylights cost more for big glass unit replacements.
  • Specialty technicians – Complex repair jobs may need experienced experts who charge more hourly.

Typical Minor Repair Costs

  • Glass pane replacements – Taking out broken double glazing glass and putting new panes in starts around £100 per average window.
  • Broken handles/hinges – Just swapping out damaged window parts costs £30-50 per window normally.
  • New weather seals  – Fresh seals around windows run £3-5 per metre. Overall expect £45-100 per window for this fix.

Bigger Double Glazing Repair Costs

More major repairs on double glazed windows cost a whole lot more:

  • Full window replacement – For badly damaged units it might be best to replace the entire window, which runs £300-500 for common sizes.
  • Refitting glass panes – Taking out broken glass pieces and putting new double glazing units back in averages £150-250 per window pane.

Other Double Glazing Repair Costs

On top of the actual repair work, you also have costs like:

  • Access equipment – Scaffolding/lifts to reach upstairs windows cost around £500 daily.
  • Callout fees – Repair companies often charge £50-100 per visit for inspecting issues and providing quotes.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, double glazing repair costs range widely depending mostly on:

  • How much needs fixing
  • Number and size of windows
  • Ability to access windows safely

Small repairs might run £100-250 per window pane. Bigger fixes with full glass replacements could be £500+ per window. Get multiple repair quotes before starting major repair projects so you know expected costs. Understanding repair scope is also key to budgeting accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do typical double glazing repairs take?

Minor repairs take 2 to 3 hours normally. Bigger projects with accessibility challenges can take 6+ hours depending on what’s needed.

Should I try DIY repairs to save cash?

Only for very simple maintenance. Glass replacements must be done properly by experts.

Do replacement glass panes look the same as originals?

Top quality replacements from reputable brands are indistinguishable from original window units. Cheap units sometimes look noticeably different.

Can failed double glazing cause condensation/mould?

Failed seals definitely allow exterior moisture inside that condenses on walls, potentially causing mould over time. This is why prompt repairs are important.

Is double glazing damage covered by home insurance?

Only if you have optional glass breakage coverage. But wear and tear issues are usually excluded. Check your policy wording for specifics.