Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can to soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it will also help to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. You should also consider the kind of glass that is damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an alternative that is more durable.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their location so that they can be put back in place.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin to prepare 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, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double glazed window repairs-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you need to contact the company to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools to do an excellent job. They know how to dispose of waste safely and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They are also familiar with working with different kinds of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner might not be able to notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, since this could prevent future problems.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should take only a couple of minutes, but you need to be quick as the mixture is thick and will dry quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess with a knife. The next step is to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't do this correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and nearby match it with the frame of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding and will also block out wind, water insects, water, and other debris.

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough, you can use silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Simply run a bead of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you can repair it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing your windows and will give your home a fresh look. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges and other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. You should also have the paint and brushes you'll be using for the project in your possession. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Have patience, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

Also, ensure that the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry quicker. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Make use of soap and warm water 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 dried before you begin painting them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to make claims for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or the dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to resolve the issue, regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you own an upgraded insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it may be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into place, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and simple to install however, it is costly and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed to the floor however they provide virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and debris.

To fix a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that fix the glass to the frame's recess with sharp and pointed edges. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and will provide a better seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a small amount the putty on the inside edge of the frame, nearby where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it dries.