Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving huge panes of glass. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and are often working in harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the glazing points made of metal and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window, and it will also help to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that is damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step in repairing broken windows is to remove the sash, or frame and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that secure the window. Keep an eye on the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and make a claim. After the new glass has been erected, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring an arc of the edge of a blade just over the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, but it will slow down the development of the crack until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best methods for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also familiar with various types of windows and may be aware of issues that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. It is usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be quickly mixed. After the mixture is prepared then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but you need to work quickly because the mixture is thick and dries quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't do it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then align it with the frame made of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic covering. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will keep the crack from growing and will also keep out water, wind, bugs, and debris.

If you're not able to get to the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and can give your home a fresh appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Wash the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You should have the brushes and paints you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to fully dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space where you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be in a position to submit a claim to the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've experienced multiple problems with condensation or damaged glass.

Sealing

If you have Double Glazing Repairs Thamesmead-pane windows with a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also seal up the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and simple to install however, it can be costly and is typically used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor however they provide little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and debris.

To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that hold the glass in the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed ends. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun, but a knife provides a better application that is more precise and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it will be more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or errant drips before it dries.