Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under extreme weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and eliminate the old putty.

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.

The first step in fixing a broken window is to take off the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and pull out any remaining shards. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window repair near in place. Keep an eye on the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

After the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install the new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After the compound has dried then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If the crack is greater 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 progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do an excellent job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.

Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack could cause shards of glass to fly around and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It's also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future problems.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They are usually a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and let it dry. This should only take a few minutes, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. After that, you'll need 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. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the frame made of wood.

For a more durable solution think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.

If you're unable to reach the window quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and can give your home a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges, and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use in your kit. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

Also, ensure that the room you're working in is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly using warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to scrub off any grease or oil that could hinder 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 might be able to file a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if you have experienced multiple problems with broken glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to address the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you have a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit but it may be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install however, it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and Glass Window Repair can be put to the floor but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.

To fix a cracked window seal, first use a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves carefully remove the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using a putty knife or caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and creates a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and a longer life.

Apply a small amount the putty on the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.