Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen can maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun will help to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also assist in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will require a more permanent solution.

The first step in repairing damaged windows is to take off the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that hold the glass in place. Keep track of the components and where they are so they can be reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install 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 give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you must contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring a small arc with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it will slow down the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They're also familiar with various types of windows and are aware of issues that aren't apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack can cause shards of glass to fly away, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you can prevent future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. It is usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should take only some minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you do not clean the area properly the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it to the frame of wood.

Think about using a plastic lid to make a more durable choice. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water, bugs, and debris.

You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to get to the window in time. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between the frame and glass, but it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may need to paint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply several thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You should have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and have plenty of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.

You should also make sure the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing into toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin coating them.

If you have energy efficient double glazing repairs pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to make a claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if you have experienced numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up 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 can be stapled, glued, or put in place, but it is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in however, it is costly and is generally used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put into place but they create very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, first use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass to the recess of the frame. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding traces, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows as it will be more adhesive and a longer life.

Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the drawn line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.