Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points as well as the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective and can assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.

To repair a broken window, take off the sash or frame and lay it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound, and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Make sure you keep an eye on the location of these components so that they can be reinstalled later.

After the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. After that, you can purchase double glazed window repair-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this then you should call them and submit a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be covered with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If your crack is more than an inch you can stop it from spreading by slicing an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This trick won't be completely foolproof, but it could slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They are able to dispose of waste safely which means they are less likely than others to leave behind scraps that could harm family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before you begin the process of repairing damaged window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, as this could prevent future issues.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. After the mix has been made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only a couple of minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and dries quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove any excess using a putty knife. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the debris could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and align it with the wood frame.

To make a more durable option think about using a plastic covering. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to get to the window in an efficient manner. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between glass and wooden frame but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder 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 a single thick one. This will allow the paint to last longer and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal. You will need brushes or sponges painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project in your possession. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the space in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be eligible to submit a claim to the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be required in situations where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to put in however it can be costly and is generally reserved for areas exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they offer very little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To fix a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or wooden caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give an easier application and a stronger seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass as it will last longer and adhere better.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the cut line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it dries.