Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large panes of tempered glass from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety standards and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

It is tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it can also help to avoid other issues in the efficiency of your home. Consider the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is required.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to take off the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining fragments. Use a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep track of the components and where they are so that they can be put back in place.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin ensure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double glazing repair-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

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

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle a variety of glass and have the tools to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows and could be able to spot issues that a home owner with no experience would not notice.

Before you begin the process of repairing damaged window glass, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and could pose a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's also important to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.

Begin by creating an epoxy mixture that has two parts. It is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is prepared apply it to the crack in the glass and let it dry. It will take just a couple of minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and will dry quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame of wood.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will keep the crack from expanding, and will also keep out water, wind bugs, debris, and water.

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

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and will give your house a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape, a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have a good amount of patience since it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area in which you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that could hinder adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to make an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them. This is especially relevant if you've had multiple problems with condensation or broken glass while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you own an insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt is cheap and can be glued, nailed or stapled in place but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in, but it can be expensive and is usually used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged window seal first, use a putty knife 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 recess of the frame. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding residue Then, seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better precision and precise application. It also creates a better seal. Select a putty specifically designed for upvc repairs near me glass windows, since it will be more adhesive and long-lasting.

Apply a thin layer of putty across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.