Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high off the ground, maneuvering massive glass panes. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it can also help you to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. You should also take into consideration the kind of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you will require an option that is more permanent.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in place. Make sure you keep an eye on the location of these components to ensure that they can be put back in place later.

After removing the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double glazing-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be sprayed with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the crack to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the right tools and know how to handle different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste safely which means they are less likely than other people to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They are also familiar with working with different kinds of windows and could be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, make sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly away and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are typically 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and must be mixed quickly. After the mixture is prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option think about using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding and will also block out wind, water, bugs, and debris.

You can come up with an interim solution if you are unable to get to the window in time. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal. You'll need brushes or sponges, painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and window replacement brushes that you will be using in your kit. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have a good amount of patience since it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area in which you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean off any oil or grease that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be in a position to file a claim with the window company or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options to address the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, window replacement or fixing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in, but it is costly and is usually used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are cheap. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass to the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe away any sanding sludge then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, as it is more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it dries.