Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window

Glazing can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly true for older double-glazed windows.

It is possible to replace glazing points with the window in place, however it is much simpler and quicker to remove the frame and glass. It is a good time to replace the rubber seals.

Broken Glass

Cracked windows are not only unsightly but can also let valuable sunlight and heat to escape your home. Fortunately, it's often possible to repair a broken window without the need for full replacement.

Start by putting on protective gloves and safety glasses. You can also employ duct tape or a painter's tape to make an "X" on the glass you plan to remove. This prevents any shattered pieces from falling as you work, which could save you from serious injury.

Cover a small crack on your window glass using tape to keep water, insects and wind from getting. One strip of tape is sufficient for cracks with a superficial appearance but if you're worried about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, use a heavier-duty plastic cover, like a tarp or trash bag, to keep the glass in place until you obtain a permanent fix.

For cracks that aren't as deep Try using a strong adhesive designed specifically for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to bond to glass and dries clear to give a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack in the glass and let it dry completely before applying a new layer.

Stress cracks are another frequent problem that can happen to your glass window. They're usually caused by significant temperature fluctuations, and can quickly spread across the entire glass window if not repaired. To avoid stress fractures using a glass cutter, you need to cut a small circle close to the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing, and can slow it down by a few days.

If you're replacing an old window make sure you measure the frame to fit the new pane. It should be slightly smaller than the opening to allow for expansion and contraction and to cover any imperfections in the frame or glass. After you've cut your new glass to size apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound is dry, paint over it to match the frame of the window.

Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows

Condensation inside double-glazed windows is usually an indication that the seal on the window unit has failed. This is a serious issue because it indicates that heat from your home is lost through the window and can be costly to both you and your energy bills.

Double glazing is designed to prevent heat transfer between two panes, by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a tight seal that blocks warm air from escaping. If the glass is colder or colder than the frame then condensation will accumulate on it and cause damage to the window. If you are unable solve condensation issues on a double-glazed window by opening windows or using extractors, dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, then you might need professional help.

It's much rarer for condensation to appear on the outside of double-glazed windows, but it could occur when the seal between the glass and window frame has started to deteriorate. It is more prevalent during winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. The main cause of this is a fault in the spacer that is used between the window and the frame. The spacer is often filled with desiccant which is highly absorbent and absorbs excess moisture.

This could lead to water leaking through the gap when the desiccant has been saturated. This can cause water and condensation to build within the gap, which is difficult to get rid of.

Most reputable window companies offer a warranty and replace the unit and glass of the window if it's damaged by condensation. Inform any issues as quickly as you can to your window installer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as fast as possible to avoid further damage.

Shattering Window Glass

A damaged window could be more than an aesthetic problem. It could also pose a safety risk, especially if it is spreading. It is recommended to get it fixed as quickly as you can. There are many ways to do it by using glass adhesives designed for vehicle windows, which can be purchased through the internet or at numerous auto repair shops. You can also make use of a glass compound designed for use at home and can be purchased in a lot of hardware and home improvement stores.

Put on thick gloves and safety goggles prior to start any work. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will stop them from cutting you or a glass repair worker later on.

It's a good idea to work from a ladder, instead of laying on the floor. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame more easily and will protect you from glass falling. It is also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet before proceeding, which is the area around the perimeter of the window frame where the glass will go. Clean it and then apply the linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick to the frame securely.

After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet is in place, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the damaged pane. Order a piece of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll need glass points which is a metallic triangle that keeps the glass in place.

After removing the window sash, use a flat pry-bar to gently pry the sash away from the moulding of wood. It is possible to scrape old glazing putty off using a utility blade or chisel. Then make use of the heat gun to warm any putty that isn't able to be removed. This will make it easier to peel it off.

When the frame is out of the molding then carefully press the glass in its new location. Fill in the gaps using the glazier's tip or Window Doctor a putty knife. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame to match. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.

Replacement Window Glass

Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape the window's edge to stop it from breaking when you remove it.

Make use of a utility knife to cut off the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the frame opening, and then apply a coat of linseed to aid in adhering the new putty better.

Once the frame has been made, measure it to determine the dimensions of the new windowpane. Then, purchase it from an home improvement store or other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than you measurement. This will ensure a perfect fit.

It's much easier than you think to install windows that are new. However, it's important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure a good fitting and long-lasting replacement. Use a wire brush to clear the frame of old paint or wood gunk, and then sand it down to bare wood in order to increase the seal between the frame and sash.

Use the point of the putty knife when installing the new window doctor to lightly place it against the wood frame. Then, press glazier's facets into the frame approximately every six inches to hold the new window firmly in place.

After the frame has cured, coat the joint with a few coats of paint that match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to cleaning and maintaining your window. Making sure your windows are clean and operating well will prolong their lifespan and increase the efficiency of your home's energy usage. You may want to replace your windows if they're older or in poor condition. If you opt for this option, we recommend choosing a high-quality, insulated window to cut down on your energy bills. The type of window you select will also impact the total cost of your project.