Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen can maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety standards and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun will help to soften and eliminate the old putty.

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when panes break. It is cheaper to replace a window and it will also help to avoid other issues in the efficiency of your home. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash and place it flat on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in place. Be sure to keep track of these components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.

After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call them to make an claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If your crack is longer than an inch in length, you can prevent it from expanding by cutting the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it will slow down the growth of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They're also familiar with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly and could pose a danger to anyone within or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They are typically a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. This should only take about a minute, but it's essential to get it done quickly as the mixture is very dense and fast drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area 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 smooth out the compound around the window's edge and match it to the frame made of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.

You can make an interim solution in the event that you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass however it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and will give your home a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other traces that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools such as paper towels or a rag. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take a while for the paint to fully dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to scrub away any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.

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

Sealing

There are many ways to resolve the issue depending on whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you have a newer insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be required in situations where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame but it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to install, but it can be costly and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be nailed into place however they provide virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, carefully pry out the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun. However, using a knife allows for a more efficient precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows as it will be more adhesive and a longer life.

Apply a small amount of the putty on the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were applied incorrectly before it dries.