Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a high point above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety protocols.

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

Replacement

It is tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace windows and it can also help prevent other problems in your home's efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.

To fix a damaged window, remove the sash or frame and place it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in place. Keep track of the location of these components to ensure that they can be replaced later.

After the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Make sure you check 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, purchase double-strength glass that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and make a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting a small arc with a razor blade that is just above the crack could help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools needed to complete an excellent job. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other people to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or family members. They're also used to working with different window types and are capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing cracked glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone 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 problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. This should only take some minutes, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is very dense and fast drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the frame made of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

You can create an interim solution when you are unable reach the window in time. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken pane. It won't close the gap between the frame and glass completely, but it will hold the broken piece in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and can give your home a new look. Before painting, Window replacement make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take a while for the paint to fully dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, then you might be eligible to submit a claim to the dealer or window company who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly the case if you've experienced multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or fixing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to put up and is durable however, it can be costly. It is typically used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide only a small amount of protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a cracked window seal, first use a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass to the recess of the frame. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or Double Glazing Repair clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun, but the knife is a better application that is more precise and creates a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, since it will last longer and adhere better.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it dries.