The 10 Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high off the ground, maneuvering huge panes of glass. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

It is tempting to repair the glass of your window instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step to repair a broken window is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, gently wiggle and pull out any shards remaining in the window repairs near me. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install the new glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call the company to file a claim. After the new glass has been erected, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting a small arc with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the development of the crack to a manageable amount until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to handle different types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other people to leave behind scraps which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They are also familiar with working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner would not notice.

Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small crack can cause shards of glass to fly around and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It is also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. They usually consist of made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done put it in the glass crack and allow it to dry. It should take only about a minute, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very dense and fast drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner the residue could cause further damage to your glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then align it with the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to get to the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Finally it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and make 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 brushes or sponges painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll need for the project on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry quicker. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to submit a claim to the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had numerous issues with broken glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it may be necessary in cases where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal up the gap between windows and a threshold or sill by using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in however it can be costly and is usually used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put 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 knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that fix the glass in the frame's recess using sharp, pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, since it will be more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer of glue on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it has dried.