Window Glass Repairs

Condensation could damage the seal on your double-pane windows and structural integrity. If you're a homeowner or building owner with a problem such as this, there are a variety of temporary fixes to think about before you commit to a more permanent solution.

Take measurements of the height and width of the frame opening. Subtract 1/8-inch from each measurement to order glass panes that are slightly undersized, which will make it easier to install and give room for seasonal expansion and contraction.

Cracks

A pebble thrown by your lawnmowers crashing into the window, a beloved vase being tipped over by a cat, or a abrupt change in the weather can all cause cracks in your windows. These cracks can usually be repaired at home if you're willing to put in a little effort. However, if the crack is larger than an inch, a single pane window, or double-paned glass with an opening through both panes, you should seek out an expert to repair the damage.

A window that is cracked and only small or near the edge of the frame can usually be repaired by placing the clear packing tape on either side of the crack. This will stop the crack from spreading and seal the gap to the exterior to keep out bugs, rain, wind and other debris. Be aware, however, that this fix is only temporary since cracks in glass tend to spread over time.

Use a two-part epoxy for larger cracks. You should first thoroughly clean the area and remove any broken glass. Next, mix up the epoxy in a well-ventilated location on the surface of a piece of cardboard or a paper plate. The mixture is typically made up of a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, but you should follow the instructions on your specific product. The epoxy thickens quickly after mixing and must be applied immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it in place using your putty knives. Allow it to dry for 5 minutes.

Clear nail polish is an alternative option for repairing cracks at home. Similar to super glue, the nail polish will fill in and bond the cracks together, preventing them from spreading. Be sure to allow the nail polish to completely dry, since washing or cleaning the area may cause it to fall off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the glass. This is essential, especially for windows that are aging. These gaps can allow water and other elements to get into the home.

Leaks

In-home accidents, such as a misplaced baseball or a furniture move that was not well planned, are the most common reason for broken glass. Also, outdoor accidents like strong winds can rip the pane out of its frame. Caulking can be used to repair cracks in glass. This repair procedure can be accomplished using polysulfide or silicon caulking dependent on the type of window glass and the materials used to construct the frame.

This repair to the window glass is best done when the weather is warm and dry. This permits you to apply the caulking while it is dry and allows it time to cure before being exposed to rain. It's important to inspect the window from both inside and outside to determine the location of the leak. Make sure that the weep holes in the frame are free of debris and insect carcasses. This will prevent water from entering through.

If you see the appearance of a water trail, it indicates that the window is leaky. Use a pry bar to remove the existing trim to examine the joint. If you see signs of rot then this will need to be replaced with a wood filler product prior to applying the caulking. After cleaning and sanding the surface, caulking can be applied. It should dry overnight.

Another type of leak is one that's structural, usually resulting from a damaged or rotten wall around the window. It's difficult to identify because it's not always directly beneath the window. If you notice damp patches on the window frame it's likely that there is an opening in the wall that allows water to flow in and collect either above or below the studs.

In this instance, it is best to seek out an expert who can evaluate the situation and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed. If the issue is extensive then it's a good idea to replace the window entirely, which will let you enjoy greater energy efficiency in your home.

Broken Panes

You should call a professional if your window glass breaks into shards because of the force of a storm or a baseball thrown at you from your children. While replacing a single pane of glass in a tiny window is fairly simple for most DIYers double-pane windows require special tools and should be left to professionals.

When a double pane window breaks, a gap that is energy-efficient is created. To prevent the cold air, water and critters from making a way into your home and increasing your energy bills, call a window repair professional to replace the entire window unit instead of just the broken piece of glass.

The first step in repairing double-paned windows is to remove old glass from the frame. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves make sure you break the glass shards into pieces that can be manipulated. Once you've removed the glass, use a putty knife to scrape away the glazing compound and Window Repair points. This process is messy, but it's necessary to ensure that the new glass is positioned correctly within the window frame.

Utilize a scraper after the bare wood has been exposed to smooth it. If needed a chisel could be used to loosen any molding made of wood that is too tight or stuck on the window frame. Then clean the wood with fine-grit sandpaper, then seal it with linseed oil or a clear window caulk to stop the growth of mold or rot.

While you can put one windowpane inside a wooden frame with a little practice, double-glazed windows require the help of an expert to avoid any issues. Double-glazed windowpanes are different in size and dimensions from single panes and must be produced by a professional to ensure that they are properly fitted.

Homeowners typically decide to replace their window glass when they notice moisture or condensation between the windowpanes, a crack that is spreading rapidly and causing higher energy bills in summer and winter or the need to comply with regulations for older windows. Window glass replacement could be a cost-effective option when you're thinking about improving the appearance of your home or upgrading to energy-efficient windows.

Replacement

Most homeowners replace their windows when it's cracked or broken, or if the single-paned windows are old and outdated. This can be costly, but can also increase energy-efficiency and reduce noise within the home. It is recommended to hire an expert to install the new windows to be sure that the job is done properly. A professional will know the different types of glasses available and will choose the most suitable one for your home. They will also know how to install it properly, which can save you money in the long run.

Tape the crack with masking or packing tape, stretching the tape to both sides of the fracture. This will stop the crack from spreading as you work on fixing it. Then, you can apply clear nail varnish to the crack in order to seal it and shield it from the elements. You can do up to three layers of nail polish, and let it dry thoroughly between each application.

You can use a utility knife to take off old glazing putty. You'll also need to cut off any clips or nails used to hold the pane. After you have removed the old pane, you will need to clean the edges and frames of the glass. This is to ensure that no shards are left behind. Then, you can reinstall the window pane. Apply silicone caulk if there is a gap in order to aid in adhering the glass to the frame.

It is possible to follow the same process for a larger, however more difficult window. You'll need a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. It is also possible to remove decorative elements like muntins or mullions that are used to separate the glass panes for aesthetic reasons. It is recommended to employ an expert window repair or replacement expert for this type of work, because they'll be able deal with these issues safely and quickly. They will also know how to remove waste safely, so that it does not fall on pets or family members.