Cracks, Blown Units And Shattered Windows Across Medway

Hi, I’m Tim from TS Glazing, and one of the most frequent calls I get from homeowners across Medway is about damaged or blown double glazing. Whether it’s a small crack that’s spreading, a window that’s gone misty ztinside, or a completely shattered pane, glass damage is something that needs attention, not just for safety, but for energy efficiency and security too.

The good news? Most of the time, it’s fixable and it doesn’t always mean replacing your entire window.

What Causes Glass Damage in Double Glazing?

Glass might seem solid and strong, but over time, several things can lead to cracks, blown seals, or breakage. Here are the main causes I come across in homes around Medway including: Rainham, Gillingham, Chatham, Strood and Rochester:

Sudden changes in the temperature can cause your glass to expand and contract, unfortunately this leads to cracks.

Accidental knocks from garden tools, footballs, or even a slammed window can cause visible cracks or shattering.

Older double-glazed units eventually lose their integrity, seals weaken, and pressure builds inside the panes.

When a window “blows,” the airtight seal between the panes breaks down, letting moisture in and creating that misty look.

Poorly fitted units are under stress from day one, increasing the risk of cracking or movement over time.

I recently visited a home in Chatham where a customer had noticed a hairline crack in their kitchen window. Within a few weeks, it had grown across the whole pane. We replaced the glass quickly before it became a safety issue and it cost far less than replacing the entire frame.

The Difference Between Cracked, Blown and Shattered Windows

Cracked glass: Often starts as a fine line, caused by stress or impact. It might look small at first but can quickly spread, especially in cold weather.

Blown windows: These are the ones that look “foggy” or have condensation between the panes. It happens when the seal fails, allowing moisture inside.

Shattered glass: This usually happens from an impact or major temperature shock. Modern toughened glass breaks into small pieces for safety, but it still needs replacing as soon as possible to keep your home secure.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Glass Damage

Even small cracks or blown units can lead to bigger problems if left too long:
Heat loss: Damaged or failed glazing lets cold air in and warm air out, increasing your heating bills.

Security risks: Cracked or loose glass weakens the overall window structure.

Moisture & mould: Blown or misted windows trap condensation, which can lead to damp issues around the frame.

Worsening damage: Once a crack starts, it’s only a matter of time before it spreads.

In Rochester, we recently replaced a set of cracked patio door units for a customer who’d put off the repair. Once fitted with new, energy-efficient glass, they instantly noticed the warmth difference and the home looked brighter too.

How TS Glazing Repairs Glass Damage

At TS Glazing, we always aim to repair where possible before recommending a full replacement. Here’s how we handle glass damage:

We assess whether the issue is isolated to the glass or affects the frame and seal too.

We source high-quality double-glazed units that match your existing windows perfectly, in size, style, and tint.

We carefully remove the damaged or shattered glass, ensuring no harm to surrounding frames or brickwork.

We fit your new glass using professional sealing techniques to ensure long-lasting insulation and performance.

We clean, test, and reseal everything, leaving your windows as good as new.

Real Work Around Medway

In Gillingham, we recently replaced a set of “blown” upstairs windows that had completely misted up. The homeowners thought they needed full new frames, but we managed to fit brand-new sealed glass units instead, restoring clarity and saving them hundreds.

In Strood, a patio door panel had shattered after being hit by a stray stone from a lawnmower. We replaced it with toughened safety glass the same week, keeping the family secure and the home looking spotless again.

Can You Fix a Cracked or Blown Window Yourself?

It’s best not to try. Once the glass or seal has failed, DIY fixes (like tape or silicone sealant) won’t hold properly or restore insulation. In fact, they often make the problem worse.

Glass repair requires proper sealing, correct fitting, and safety-rated glass, and that’s where a professional like TS Glazing comes in.

Why Medway Homeowners Trust TS Glazing

We’re a husband-and-wife team based in Hempstead, Medway, and we take pride by offering a friendly, reliable service. My wife Sam runs the office, looking after our customers and organising bookings, while I focus on the installations and repairs.

Whether you’re dealing with cracked, blown, or shattered glass, we’ll give you honest advice, affordable solutions, and a finish that lasts

Get in Touch

If you’ve noticed a crack, misting, or damaged glass, don’t leave it to get worse. We’ll inspect it, explain what’s needed, and get it sorted quickly and safely.

Call or message TS Glazing today for your free quote. We proudly serve Rainham, Gillingham, Chatham, Rochester, Strood, Wigmore, Lordswood, Walderslade, and surrounding Medway areas.

Have a look at our Checkatrade reviews or visit our Facebook page to see what local homeowners say about our work, we’re proud to keep Medway’s homes warm, secure, and crystal clear.