Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large panes of tempered glass from a height higher than the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.

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

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it when the glass breaks. It is more cost-effective to replace a window and it can also help you to avoid other issues in the efficiency of your home. Examine the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is required.

The first step to repair damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to remove the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash are removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install the new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double glazing repair-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is recommended to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to make a claim. After the new glass has been erected, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring an arc of a razor blade that is just above the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools to do an excellent job. They know how to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or family members. They're also used to working with different types of windows and are aware of issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you can prevent future problems.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. They usually consist of made up of a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. After the mixture is prepared, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and will dry quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove any excess with a knife. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the residue could cause further damage to the 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 to the frame of wood.

If you want a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and insects out.

If you're unable to get to the window in a timely manner then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside edge of the broken window. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely, but it will hold the fracture until you can fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal. You'll need a sponge or brush, painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area where you work is adequately ventilated. This will reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be able to submit a claim to the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to address the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. 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 long-lasting however, it can be costly. It is typically used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be nailed to the floor however they provide very little or no protection between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal first, use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed edges. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding debris, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and provides a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it will be more adhesive and long-lasting.

Apply a thin bead of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with edge of frame. Apply pressure on 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 has dried.