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 follow strict safety guidelines.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

It is tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it will also help prevent other problems in your home's efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is temporary or if you will require an option that is more permanent.

The first step to repair broken windows is to remove the sash, or frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame 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 the position. Keep an eye on these components and their locations to ensure that they can be put back in place later.

After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you need to contact them to file a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it should be sprayed with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They also know the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could injure family members or pets. They're also used to working with different types of windows and may be aware of issues that aren't apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing cracked glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, since this can prevent future problems.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They are typically 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they need to be quickly mixed. When the mixture is prepared put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is very thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a putty blade. The next step is to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly, the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Once the glass is cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and to align it with the wood frame.

Think about using a plastic lid for a more robust option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will stop the crack from expanding, and will also block out wind, water, bugs, and debris.

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely however it will keep the break in place until you can fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may need to paint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and will give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges, and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. Also, you should 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 available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a sponge or brush painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll be using to complete the project. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

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 oil residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, 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 especially the case if you've experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows repair with a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options to address the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be required in situations where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging product.

You can also fill in the gap between windows and a sill or threshold using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in however it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, replace carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that hold the glass in the frame's recess using sharp, pointed edges. After taking out the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand down the wood. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give an easier application and a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, as it will be more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.