An In-Depth Look Back: How People Talked About Glass Window Repair 20 …

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and are often working in harsh weather conditions.

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

Replacement

It's tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective and can assist in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Consider the kind of glass damaged to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is needed.

The first step in fixing a broken window is to take off the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep track of the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before doing this, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around each window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to make an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring a small arc with a razor blade just beyond the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs that are left behind, which could injure family members or pets. They're also familiar with different window types and are aware of issues that aren't obvious to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, since this can prevent future problems.

Begin by creating an epoxy mixture that has two parts. These are usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they need to be quickly mixed. After the mix has been made then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is very thick and drys quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and match it with the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.

You can create an interim solution if you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the break in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and can give your home a fresh new look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate 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 fingers onto the glass. Finally you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools, such as paper towels or a rag. You should have the paints and contractor brushes that you will be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.

Also, ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows repair are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be in a position to submit a claim to the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if you have experienced multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or repairing double glazed windows the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also close 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 is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to install however, it is costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.

To fix a cracked window seal, first use a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame's recess, with sharp edges and pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood. Clean any sanding residue, contractor then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better application that is more precise and provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inner edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and then wipe off any mistakenly applied caulk or errant drips prior to drying.