Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating huge panes of glass. They work in extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. It is cheaper to replace windows and it can also help prevent other problems in your home's efficiency. Examine the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is needed.

To fix a damaged window, you must remove the frame or sash, and place it on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards remaining in the window pane. Use a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep the track of the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.

After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before you begin ensure that the opening in the frame is sized for your replacement window. Measure both ways across 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 glazed window repairs-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this you should contact them and make a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After the compound is dry you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.

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

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave waste behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They're also familiar with various types of windows and may be aware of issues that aren't apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been prepared then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but you need to work quickly because the mixture is thick and drys quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. You'll then need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can 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 match it to the wood frame.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from expanding and will also keep out water, wind bugs, debris, and water.

If you're not able to reach the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply place a tiny amount of the material around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Apply several thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will make the paint last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You will need either a brush or sponge painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, then you might be able to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with condensation or broken glass and the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you own an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is creating energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also close the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be glued, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To fix a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue Then, seal the bare wood with 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 the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it will have higher adhesion and a longer life.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.