Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving huge glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

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

Replacement

When 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 help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Examine the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is needed.

To repair a broken window, remove the frame or sash, and lay it flat on your work surface. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any shards remaining in the window. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that hold the glass in the position. Make sure you keep the track of the location of these components to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After you've removed the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible then you should call them and file an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If your crack is more than an inch in length You can stop it from spreading by scoring the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially hurt pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, so that you will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and Window doctor they need to be mixed quickly. After the mixture is prepared then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take some minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and drys very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. You'll need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the wood frame.

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

If you're unable to get to the window in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't close the gap between the frame and the glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and will give your home a new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Wash the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

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

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or dealer that sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had numerous problems with condensation or damaged glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to address the issue regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole into 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, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled in place, but it does not provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and durable however, it can be costly. It is usually reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To fix a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass into the recess of the frame. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding traces and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient application that is more precise and creates a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, as it is more durable and stick better.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inner edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.