Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, navigating massive glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the kind of glass that is damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an alternative that is more durable.

To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash, and lay it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and then remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep track of the components and where they are so that they can be put back in place.

After 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 properly sized for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is accountable then you should call them and file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After drying the compound, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade just beyond the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste safely and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind pieces of glass that could harm family pets or family members. They're also familiar with various types of windows, and they may be aware of issues that aren't obvious to the uninitiated homeowner.

Before you begin the process of repairing cracked window glass, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A minor crack could cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone who lives in or around the home. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, since this could prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. It is usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they must be quickly mixed. After the mix has been prepared, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It will take just about a minute however it is important to get it done quickly as the mixture is very dense and fast drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you do not clean the area correctly, the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and to match it to the frame of wood.

Think about using a plastic lid for a more robust option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, however you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from expanding, and will also keep out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

You can create an interim fix if you are unable to get to the window in an efficient manner. Simply run a bead of the substance around the outside of the broken window. It won't close the gap between the frame and glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and give your home a fresh appearance. Make sure the surface is clean before painting. Wash the window repairs with water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal if you plan to repaint glass windows. You will need either a brush or sponge painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll need for the project on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the space where you work is well ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry faster. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly using warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to scrub off any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin painting them.

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file a claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer that sold the windows. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to address the issue, home regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you own a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be necessary if condensation or fog cause energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

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 is cheap and can be glued, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed into place however they provide little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass in the frame's recess using sharp, pointed ends. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using a putty knife or caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better precision and precise application. It also creates a better seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a thin layer along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the cut line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved and then wipe off any mistakenly applied caulk or spills that are not properly wiped away before it is dry.