Glass Window Repair

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

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can help soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

It is tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Examine the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is required.

The first step to repair broken windows is to take off the sash, also known as the frame and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, gently wiggle and pull out any remaining shards within the window. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window, this may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you must contact the company to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade that is just above the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable level until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than others to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They're also used to working with different window types and are able to spot problems that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly away and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future issues.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They are usually a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done put it in the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It will take just about a minute, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean the area correctly, the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the frame of wood.

For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic covering. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also block out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

If you're unable to reach the window in a timely manner then you can apply silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside of the broken pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the fracture until you can fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and will give your home a fresh new look. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply multiple thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need either a brush or sponge painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you will be using on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience as it can take some time for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the room in which you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly using warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file a 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 numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows that have 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. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane or fixing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also close the gap between a window replacement frame and a threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is typically reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place, but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and debris.

To fix a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass to the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, as it will be more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away before it is dry.