Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

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

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if panes break. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.

To fix a damaged window, take off the sash or frame and lay it flat on the work surface. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any shards remaining within the window. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in place. Keep track of the components and where they are so that they can be put back in place.

Once the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them 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 should call them 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 is dry you can 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 stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof however it can slow the development of the crack until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows, and they may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, since this will help prevent any future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually composed of a 50/50 blend of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is prepared put it in the glass crack and leave it to dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is very dense and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it to the wood frame.

If you want a more durable solution, consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will keep the crack from expanding and will also keep out water, wind bugs, debris, and water.

If you're not able to get to the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replace windows and give your home a fresh appearance. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Wash the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows repair appear even and smooth.

Make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience as it can take a while for the paint to dry.

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

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

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

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with 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 insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be required in situations where fog or condensation is causing energy losses. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single pane or repairing 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, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to install however, it is costly and is usually used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a cracked window seal, first employ 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 hold the glass into the recess of the frame. After getting rid of the glazing points clean the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris and then seal the unfinished wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty. However, the use of a knife allows for an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, as it will be more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer across the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame, Glass Window Repair so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound using fingers that are gloved and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it dries.