Glass Window Repair: 11 Thing You're Leaving Out

Glass Window Repair

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

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective and may aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is a temporary fix or if you will require an option that is more permanent.

To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash and place it on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep an eye on the components and their locations so that they can be replaced later.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to make an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If your crack is longer than an inch, you can prevent it from expanding by cutting an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack down to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to work with various types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste safely, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could harm family pets or family members. They're also used to working with different window types and are capable of identifying issues that aren't obvious to an inexperienced homeowner.

Before you begin the process of repairing damaged window glass, ensure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It's also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They usually consist of a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared apply it to the glass crack and leave it to dry. It will take just a couple of minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and will dry very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it to the frame of wood.

For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will keep the crack from growing and will also keep out wind, water insects, water, and other debris.

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the crack in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and will give your home a fresh new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Clean the window using water and soap or ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges and other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools at hand. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools such as paper towels or a rag.  window repairs  is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll need to complete the project. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry quicker. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to make a claim with the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several issues 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 have an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to put in, but it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be fixed to the floor but they create very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.

To repair a cracked window seal, first use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass as it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it is dry.