Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They adhere to strict safety standards and are often working in harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is a temporary fix or if you will require an alternative that is more durable.

The first step to repair a broken window is to remove the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and pull out any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in place. Keep track of the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.

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

If the manufacturer is responsible, you can call them and make an claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If your crack is more than an inch in length, you can prevent it from expanding by cutting a small arc just beyond the crack. This method isn't infallible, but it will slow the development of the crack down to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the right tools and know how to work with various types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste safely which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They're also familiar with various types of windows and may be aware of issues that aren't apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It is crucial to determine the cause of the crack, since this will help prevent any future issues.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. It is usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done put it in the glass crack and allow it to dry. It will take just a few minutes, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. The next step is to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it with the frame made of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.

You can create an interim fix if you are unable to get to the window in a timely manner. Simply run a bead of the substance around the outside of the broken window repairs. It won't completely seal the gap between glass and frame, but it will keep the break in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new look. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of 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 one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, make sure you have the proper tools at hand. You'll need a sponge or brush painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

It is also important to ensure that the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

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, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to resolve the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with a cracked seal, or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame but it may be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and simple to install, but it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and debris.

To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that fix the glass to the frame's recess, with sharp and pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it will last longer and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it has dried.