How to Repair a Broken Window

It's a matter of a severe storm or a ball kicked by your neighbor's kids, broken window glass is not something to ignore. It can cause further problems like water leakage or drafts that increase the cost of energy.

Depending on the size of the crack, there are several options to fix it. Here are a few options to consider.

Tape

A tape that's old-fashioned can be used to temporarily fix cracks in your windows. It's simple to use, inexpensive and can be used for a long time. Cover both sides of the crack area to ensure it's as secure as is possible. This will prevent air from entering which can cause further damage to the glass and shatters within the window. Clear tape is a good alternative since it looks more appealing than duct tape and won't leave a sticky residue after you remove it.

You can also purchase special adhesive tape in most hardware stores. It comes in 2 x 30' lengths and forms an invisible patch to stop the crack or tear from spreading further. This is suitable for windows for boats as well as tent or RV vinyl windows as well as soft top car windows. It is easy to apply and requires no special tools or knowledge. Simply cut the proper size and remove the release paper. Then apply. It is resistant to salt and UV and is made of a strong material that is able to endure harsh conditions. This can save you lots of money by preventing you from needing to buy a complete window replacement.

Super Glue

Using super glue as a double glazing repair tool is a quick fix for small chips and cracks in glass. These adhesives bond to hydroxyl ions on the glass's surface, forming a strong hold in just a few seconds. Cyanoacrylate glues are also good for affixing metal, wood and ceramic to glass as they can withstand moisture as well as high temperatures. If you have a huge project to complete, however you might be interested in using epoxy or silicone glues to ensure a stronger hold and quicker drying.

Before applying any kind of glue to a damaged window, it's important to prepare the surface. You will want to remove all debris and make sure both surfaces are dry and clean. It is also a good idea to roughen the surface, particularly if it's extremely smooth. A gentle sanding provides the adhesive a larger surface area to adhere to, which will result in stronger bonds.

When you are ready start the actual repair, it is important to use a product that has been specially formulated for glasses. This will ensure that the glue is safe and won't leave any unwanted marks or fingerprints. If you can, select an adhesive that is clear, and will be transparent once it's dried. Avoid glues that expand once they dry, since this can cause cracked glass.

You'll also have to think about how the glass will be used. If it's going to be kept inside and won't be subjected to much stress, then a basic super glue will work fine. If the glass is part of an windscreen, it's an ideal idea to make use of a weatherproof adhesive.

Super glues can cure in a variety. Some require accelerators with chemicals to speed up the process, therefore it's crucial to follow the directions of the manufacturer carefully. It's recommended to work in a well-ventilated space and open any windows to allow more the flow of air, which will aid in helping the glue dry more quickly. You can also use a fan to increase the air flow around the work area. This will aid it to dry quicker.

Glass Repair Film

Glass repair film is a practical and cost-effective way to protect windows from damage when they are being repaired or replaced by experts. Anyone can put it in place even if they're not a skilled tradesman. It's simple to do and quick. It is less expensive than traditional window glass board up and will keep rain out and heat in. It also has the appearance of a glazed window and is perfect for schools, hospitals, offices, glasshouses factories, shops and shops.

The sharp shards left behind by a window that has been broken can cause serious injury and even death. Window safety films have a strong adhesive that makes fractured glass far safer, by securing the fragments inside the film. The film is transparent, which means light can pass through and it's less noticeable than boards - particularly for businesses that rely on customers visiting their premises.

The film is cut to size with knives or scissors and is supplied with a peelable liner on the reverse, which has a printed grid to aid cutting to size. It can be positioned on the opposite side of a window. If the surface is uneven, it can be overlapped 10cm to increase security.

There are a variety of safety window films available in accordance with the type of breakage. Amber safety films are recommended for bullseyes and other breaks with small cracks. Gray safety films are recommended for star breaks. The films are best applied to clean glass that is wet and it is recommended to use a polyethylene TAP squeegee using a soap solution to apply the film. After the film is stuck to the glass it is recommended to allow it to cure for a couple of days.

This heavy duty self adhesive film is designed to help stabilize and weatherproof damaged or broken glass until a permanent repair can be made. Eastman Films has years of experience in the production of safety and security window films. The film is available in 15-metre rolls that have a 914mm width and comes with a backing sheet as well as a release liner.

Paint

It is important to paint a window thoroughly. This will make the paint appear nicer and help it adhere better. Make sure to clean the window and scrape off any loose paint or wood. Remove all hardware, including handles and latches. In the end, you'll need to sand the area which will be painted. This will create an even surface that the primer and paint will be able to bond with.

Make sure to protect the window's area by using painters tape and plastic sheeting. This will ensure that you don't paint on anything that isn't supposed to be painted. I prefer using green frog tape for this, as it gives a crisp line that is easy to remove once the time comes. It's also a good idea to apply painters tape for any edges that are delicate and adjoin the wall surfaces.

After the window has been protected it's time to begin the actual painting. You'll want to apply a few coats of primer and let each one dry before moving on. After priming the surface, you can lightly sand the entire surface using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface for the next coat and remove any dust.

You'll have to wait until acrylic or oil-based primers or paints have dried completely before you can begin painting. Depending on the brand of paint you are using, this can take up to 24 hours.

It's time to begin painting after the primer and paint have dried. It is best to paint from the inside out by painting rails (horizontals) before stiles (verticals). This will prevent paint drips from reaching the glass. Also, Window Replacement make sure you have a damp cloth to wipe away any paint drips as soon as they occur.