Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften the old glue and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if panes break. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you'll require an alternative that is more durable.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install the new glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction, measure 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 recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible then you should call them and submit a claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If your crack is more than an inch in length You can stop it from spreading by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the development of the crack until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to handle various types of glass. They also understand the best methods for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different kinds of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner might not be able to notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, which could pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are typically 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready, apply it to the glass crack and leave it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. The next step is to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't do it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the frame made of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to reach the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply place a tiny amount of the material around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and will give your home a new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer, and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools, such as paper towels or a rag. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll use to complete the project. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and have plenty of patience since it may take some time for the paint to dry.

It is also important to ensure that the room you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may 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 numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

Whether you have old double glazing repairs-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it may be required in situations where fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also fill in the gap between windows and a sill or threshold using a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are cheap. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun, but using a knife allows for a more efficient precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it will last longer 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 the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and clean up any mistakenly applied caulk or spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.