The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating massive glass panes. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and frequently work in harsh weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it can also help you avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

The first step in repairing broken windows is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any shards remaining in the window repair pane. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in place. Keep the track of the location of these components to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

Once the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install the new glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction take measurements in 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 install every 6 inches around each window pane.

If the manufacturer is accountable then you should call them and file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to work with 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 that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows, and may be able 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 break can cause shards to fly, which could pose a risk to anyone who lives in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They typically are composed of a 50/50 blend of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but it is important to work quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and drys quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame made of wood.

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

You can come up with a temporary fix in the event that you are unable to get to the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a new appearance. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply several thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the right tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll require brushes or sponges painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and be prepared with plenty of patience as it can take awhile for the paint to 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 risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Also, make sure 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. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to make an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or the dealer who sold them. This is particularly the case if you've experienced several issues with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if 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 up with an anti-fogging product.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt is cheap and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to install and durable however, it can be costly. It is typically reserved for areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer very little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a broken window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves take care to remove the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess with sharp, pointed ends. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but the use of a knife allows for the most precise application and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.