Glass Window Repair: 11 Thing You're Leaving Out

Glass Window Repair

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

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

Replacement

When a window's pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window and it can also help prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. You should also consider the kind of glass that is broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will require an alternative that is more durable.

The first step in fixing a broken window is to remove the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Be sure to keep track of these components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

Once the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Before you do so ensure that the opening in the frame is 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, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible, you can call them and submit an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They're also used to working with different types of windows, and they may be aware of 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 break can cause shards of glass to fly away, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, since this will help prevent any future issues.

Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the cracked glass. If  repairing double glazed windows  don't do it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the frame made of wood.

If you want a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

You can come up with an interim fix if you are unable to access the window in time. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame 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 a low-cost alternative to replace your windows and will give your home a fresh look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will allow the paint to last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have all the right tools at hand. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape, a ruler, toothpicks, as well as a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll need for the project 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.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space where you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing into toxic 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 prior to painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are dry before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, 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 especially true if you have experienced multiple problems with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem, whether you have an old double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you own an upgraded IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated 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 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 the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are inexpensive. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves remove the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass in the recess of the frame. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Clean any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with either a putty knife or a caulking gun. However, the knife is a better, more precise application and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it is more durable and stick better.

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 drawn line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.