Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.

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

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective and may assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is needed.

The first step in fixing a broken window is to take off the frame, or sash and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and remove any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that help to hold the glass in place. Be sure to keep an eye on the location of these components to ensure that they can be replaced later.

Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this then you should call them and make an claim. After the new glass window repair has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After drying the compound and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If your crack is more than an inch, you can prevent it from expanding by cutting the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it will slow down the development of the crack until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to handle various types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind scraps which could cause harm to family members or pets. They are also familiar with working with different kinds of windows and could be able to spot issues that a novice home owner would not notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future problems.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. These are usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is very thick and Glass Window Repair drys very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a knife. After that, you'll need clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and match it to the wood frame.

You could consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to reach the window in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Simply run a bead of the substance around the outside of the broken pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the window's surface. Also, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the right tools on hand if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need either a brush or sponge painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll use to complete the project. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient as it can take a while for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that could hinder 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, you might be eligible to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation even though the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows that have a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging, there are several methods to address the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be required if fog or condensation are causing 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 with a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting however, it can be costly. It is typically reserved for areas subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor, but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal first, use a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the recess of the frame. After taking out the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand down the wood. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give the most precise application and a stronger seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it will be more adhesive and long-lasting.

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 drawn line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved, and Glass Window Repair wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.