Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.

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

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window, and it can also help prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. Examine the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a more permanent solution is required.

The first step to repair damaged windows is to remove the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any remaining shards in the window pane. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that hold the glass in place. Make sure you keep the track of the components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.

After the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you need to contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After the compound has dried and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If the crack is greater than an inch You can stop it from spreading by slicing a small arc just beyond the crack. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave crumbs in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different window types and are aware of issues that aren't obvious to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future issues.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. This should only take a few minutes, but it's essential to get it done quickly as the mixture is very dense and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and align it with the frame of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're unable to reach the window quickly and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might need to paint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and can give your home a fresh new look. Make sure the window is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have the proper tools nearby. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room in which you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash 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 may be able to file a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay 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 broken glass.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem, regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you have an upgraded insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also seal up the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is typically used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be fixed into place but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and other debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass in the frame's recess. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

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

Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or replaced errant drips before it dries.