15 Things Your Boss Wished You Knew About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective and can assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.

The first step to repair broken windows is to remove the sash, or Glass Window Repair frame and place it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window pane. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Be sure to keep an eye on the location of these components so that they can be reinstalled later.

After you have removed the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass made to these exact measurements. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack will help 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 are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools needed to complete the job correctly. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also used to working with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that aren't obvious to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing damaged glass. 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.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. It is usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is done apply it to the glass crack and leave it to dry. This should only take some minutes however it is important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it with the wood frame.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from growing and will also keep out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

If you're unable to get to the window in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely, but it will hold the break in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Clean the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues that can prevent 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 keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal. You'll require either a brush or sponge painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you'll be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to fully dry.

Also, ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows repair 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 several issues with broken glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem depending on whether you have an old double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you have an insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations where fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single pane or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

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 is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place but it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be nailed into place but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that hold the glass to the frame's recess using sharp edges and pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give the most precise application and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the cut line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to press the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips before it dries.