Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

It is tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect the efficiency of your home. Consider the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to remove the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and pull out any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as 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 you have removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window repair near's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be covered with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After the compound has dried then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

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 will help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to work with different kinds of glass. They also know the best practices for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different kinds of windows and could be able spot problems that an inexperienced home owner might not see.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A minor crack could cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is prepared, apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. This should only take some minutes but it's important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and fast-drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of 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 your window and then match it to the frame of wood.

Think about using a plastic lid for a more durable option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to get to the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely, but it will hold the fracture until you can fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and can provide your home with a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean before painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, and other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. In the end, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools such as paper towels or a rag. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project in your possession. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have plenty of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room in which you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that could hinder paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem depending on regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you have a newer insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame but it may be necessary if condensation or fog cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and Glass Window Repair then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install however, it can be expensive and is generally reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer very little or Glass Window Repair no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass in the recess of the frame. After getting rid of the glazing points clean the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

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

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the cut line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it dries.