Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in harsh weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if panes break. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.

The first step to repair a broken window is to remove the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Make sure you keep an eye on these components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin ensure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window repairs. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around each window pane.

Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to make a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be covered with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade just beyond the crack could help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do an excellent job. They are able to dispose of waste in a safe manner which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass which could cause harm to family pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows and could be able to spot issues that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing cracked glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they need to be quickly mixed. After the mix has been prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but it's essential to get it done quickly as the mixture is very thick and quick drying.

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

For a more durable solution think about using a plastic cover. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding and will also keep out wind, water insects, water, and other debris.

You can make an interim fix in the event that you are unable to reach the window in time. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may need to paint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new appearance. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply several thin coats rather than a single thick one. This will make the paint last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have all the right tools in your arsenal. You will need a sponge or brush painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project in your possession. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

You should also make sure the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin painting 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 window company or dealer who sold them. This is particularly true if you have experienced numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to resolve the issue regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you own an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and service frame however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door service sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to install however it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be fixed to the floor but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess with sharp, pointed ends. After taking out the glazing points, clean out the grooves and sand down the wood. Clean any sanding dust and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, the use of a knife allows for the most precise application and a more secure seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it will be more adhesive and long-lasting.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with an ungloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.