Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun will help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their locations so that they can be put back in place later.

After you have removed the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you need to contact them to make an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.

If the crack is greater than an inch in length you can stop it from expanding by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different kinds of windows and could be able to spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.

Before beginning the process of fixing cracked window glass, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack could cause shards of glass to fly away and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They usually consist of a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy using a putty blade. You'll need to clean around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner, Glass Window Repair the residue could cause further damage to your glass. After cleaning the glass using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it with the frame made of wood.

Think about using a plastic lid for a more durable option. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a strong-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're not able to get to the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely, but it will hold the break in place until you can fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and give your home a fresh look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Clean the window with water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will help the paint last longer, and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You will need either a brush or sponge as well as a painter's tamper, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use in your kit. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience as it can take awhile for the paint to dry.

It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. Also, make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or Glass Window Repair oil remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer that sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows that have a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit 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 existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also fill in the gap between a window frame and a sill or threshold using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are inexpensive. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To fix a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear 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. Select a putty made specifically for glass, since it will last longer and adhere better.

Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the local window repair into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved hand and remove any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it dries.