Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating huge panes of glass. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and eliminate the old putty.

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it will also help to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix 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 work table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that help to hold the glass in the position. Be sure to keep the track of these components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.

After the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before doing this, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you need to contact the company to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If the crack is greater than an inch in length You can stop it from expanding by slicing an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave scraps that are left behind, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They're also familiar with various types of windows and may be aware of issues that might not be apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards of glass to fly away, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be quickly mixed. After the mixture is made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and drys quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you do not clean the area properly the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and to match it with the wood frame.

If you want a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

You can come up with an interim fix if you are unable to get to the window in an efficient manner. Simply run a bead of the stuff around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely, but it will hold the fracture until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the window's surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will allow the paint to last longer and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools at hand. You will need a sponge or brush as well as a painter's tamper along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll be using in your kit. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Have patience as it can take a while for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the space in which you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints that you use.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that could hinder paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to file a claim with the window company or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if you have experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to resolve the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double glazing repair-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you have an upgraded IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also close the gap between windows and a threshold or sill by using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and simple to install, but it can be costly and is generally used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed to the floor, but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the frame's recess. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe away any sanding sludge and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however the use of a knife allows for an easier application and a stronger seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it dries.