How to Do Window Pane Replacement

It is crucial to replace a broken or damaged window pane as quickly as possible. This could result in a decrease in energy efficiency or cause moisture to accumulate between the two panes.

Replacing a window's pane is cheaper than replacing a whole window and is easily done by the average homeowner. To replace a window pane, you'll have to take off the old window, clean the frame, and apply new putty.

Removal of the Old Pane

The first step to replacing windows is to remove the existing pane. This is a risky job, therefore it is essential to wear safety equipment such as gloves and a mask. If you can, it is best to work on the floor nearby and use a ladder which can be secured safely to prevent falling. After the old pane has been removed, you can start working on the window frame. It's recommended to lightly sand down the area. After this apply a layer of linseed oil onto the frame of the wood to aid in helping the glazing compound to remain flexible.

When you are ready start the actual project, make sure that your workspace is clear of any debris and that you have all the tools you'll need. You will require a knife for scraping away any old putty that remains on the glass or within the frame of the window. It may take some effort and time, but this is necessary to ensure that you get a top-quality product.

After you have removed the old putty, you'll have an opening that is clean to accommodate your new window. Find the dimensions of this opening and subtract 1/8 inch from both length and width to ensure that you get a new window pane that fits perfectly. It's also a good idea to take a small piece of the old pane to your local hardware store so that you can match the thickness and type of glass.

Window panes can help make your home more efficient by reducing heat loss as well as noise, glare and. Replacing a single window pane is not a difficult task.

After replacing the broken pane you will need caulk and seal the edge of the window to hold it in place. This will not just give your window a beautiful finish, but will also make it energy efficient and waterproof. If you are seeking to save more money on your energy bills, you can also think about installing windows with a film that will decrease the amount of heat lost through the windows.

Take the Putty off

The glazing putty that holds panes of glass in their frames can be very difficult to remove. It can be difficult to remove as it hardens and dries. To avoid this, the old putty should be removed prior to installing the new window pane. Removing window putty is not an easy task but it is doable with a bit of perseverance and effort. It is recommended that you wear leather gloves and eye protection while working with glass because it can be very hazardous.

To begin removing the putty, you must first remove any nails or spriggs holding the window in place. These nails were used before upvc replacement window handles and double glazing came onto the market to hold the glass in place. Usually these nails are in the corners of the frame and can be removed using an screwdriver when they are exposed or by cutting them off using hacksaw. If any are hidden, you'll have to use a small chisel (or putty chisel) to remove the frame.

Mineral spirits will be needed to get rid of any old glue that remains after removal of the nail. This product is available from the majority of hardware stores and is best used in a ventilated area. Use the oil in short bursts because overheating the paint or wood can make it crack or explode.

Another option is to employ a heat gun to soften the putty. This is more effective for putty that has been painted over or hardened and can be very effective. Be sure to move when using a heat gun. If you leave it in one place for too long, the wood could be burned and the glass cracked.

Steel wool can also be used to take away the putty. However, this method is less effective and can get messy. This should be used only as a last resort, and is not recommended for homes with children.

Removal of the Metal Glazing Points

A hurled baseball, or an unruly tree branch can cause a lot of damage on a windowpane. Although most people think that a damaged window needs complete replacement of the frame and sash, in some cases simply replacing the glass is enough to fix a home's view and save energy bills.

The first step of the process of replacing windows is to remove the metal glazing points that hold the old pane in place. Scrape off as much of the softer glazing as you can using an abrasive blade to expose the points. There should be at most four of them, evenly spaced on each side of the frame. Once you can see the metal using needle-nose pliers, grasp each one and pull straight out. Be careful not to prick too hard. If the point is inflexible or breaks, you could end up damaging the frame and will need to replace it.

After removing the metal points and putty, you are able to begin to make the frame. Clean the grooves where the new glass will go and ensure they are clean and free of cracks and dents. A heat gun can be useful for this but be careful and use a low temperature to stop the wood from warping or deteriorating.

Then, if the glass is double pane take a shard of the window you used to replace to ensure that the new pane is properly fitted. Spread a thin layer silicone sealant over the inside surface of the frame rabbet, and then press the new glass into it. Trim any excess sealant using an edger, then paint the exterior to finish.

If you have a single pane of glass that you want to install then skip this step and proceed straight to the next. If the new glass is different thickness from the original, purchase an appropriate-sized piece of glass from your local glass cutter. Before installing the new pane place a glazier's push point in each corner of the frame rabbet (two on each side for a small window, more for larger windows). This will give the pane extra support and prevent it from being dislodged.

Installing the New Pane

Window panes aren't just there for aesthetics, they also improve efficiency in energy use, shield the home from rain and insects, as well as improve security. When they are damaged or broken, it's crucial to replace them right away. Many homeowners are not aware of the best way to replace a window pane. Fortunately, it's quite simple to change a window. All you need is some materials and easy steps.

Begin by removing the old windowpane. Be careful not to cut yourself. Make sure you keep a towel nearby to wipe off any remaining glass. Keep the shards in case you require a replacement window. After removing the old glazing, measure the rough opening of the frame using a tape. Note down the dimensions and subtract 1/8 inch on each side to determine the new glass size. This will ensure an extremely tight fitting glass and allow for the natural expansion and contraction. Take the measurements to your local hardware or home improvement store and have them cut a piece glass for you. Bring a piece of glass from the old window that is the same thickness and type.

Once the new pane has been put in place, apply a small bead of latex caulk around the edges to create a seal between the frame and the glass. Then, put glazier's points into the holes in the frame, centered close to the edge of the glass. You should need two points on each side, making a total of eight.

You can also add any remaining wood molding around the frame's edges. Be sure to clean the mold and putty completely before reinstalling it to ensure it will not interfere with the new pane.

While it is tempting to delay replacing a damaged window pane however, this can cause further damage to the glass and surrounding sash. It also increases the chances that you'll have to replace the entire window later on. Anyone with basic tools can fix a broken glass pane.