Double Glazing problem

[bestmum]

Can anybody help me with this question. We have just moved and the other day I noticed that the inside pane of glass in the double glazed window was broken. It has a crack in it. Does anyone know if the whole double glazing window has to be replaced or can they just replace the cracked pane. TIA bestmum

[Clanad]

Unfortunately, at least here in the U.S., the entire section requires replacing. Problem is, they come assembled from the factory and most glaziers aren't set up to replace, seal and refill with argon. Before you go to the expense of replacing the window and if you can live with the crack, wait until a cold day and see if the affected section gathers moisture on the inside between the two seperate glass pieces. If so, it'll have to be replaced since the inert gas has escaped and there's little if any insulation properties left. If it doesn't sweat, it may be the crack is still sealed and will wait until spring, if you choose...

[buildersmate]

You do not have to replace the whole window. You do have to remove the double glazing unit, comprising the two panes of glass, which are a sealed unit, tied together with a spacer system.