Glass Window Repair: What No One Has Discussed

Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect the efficiency of your home. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.

To fix a broken window, remove the frame or sash, and lay it flat on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in place. Be sure to keep track of the components and their locations to ensure that they can be replaced later.

After the frame and sash are removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install the new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double glazing repairs-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to file a claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If your crack is longer than an inch you can stop it from spreading by cutting the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle a variety of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could injure family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different window types and may be able to spot problems that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. A minor nearby crack could cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess with a putty knife. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't do this correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the wood frame.

For a more durable solution think about using a plastic covering. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will keep the crack from expanding and will also block out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

You can make an interim fix if you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean before painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will make the paint last longer and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll require a sponge or brush, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll be using to complete the project. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience, as it may take some time for the paint to fully dry.

It is also important to ensure that the room you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

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

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit claims for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging, there are several methods for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it may be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is creating energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal up the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by with a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to put in however, it can be expensive and is generally used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass into the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

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

Apply a thin layer across the inside of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with an ungloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.