10 Things We Do Not Like About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high off the ground, maneuvering massive glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points as well as the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective and can help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the kind of glass that is broken to determine if this is temporary or if you will require an option that is more permanent.

To fix a damaged window, take off the frame or sash and lay it flat on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and then remove any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.

After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Before you do so, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is accountable, you can call them and submit an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If your crack is longer than an inch you can stop it from expanding by scoring the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the growth of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best methods for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows and are able to spot problems that aren't apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. A minor crack could 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, as this could prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They typically are made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. It will take just some minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy using a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you do not clean the area correctly the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass window repair is cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then match it to the wood frame.

For a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic cover. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're not able to get to the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you can repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might need to paint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, Glass Window Repair and will give your home a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. Apply several thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, be sure you have all the right tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools like paper towels or a rag. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll need for the project on hand. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have plenty of patience since it may take a while for the paint to dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing into toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. 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 adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry before you start coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or the dealer who sold them. This is particularly relevant if you've had numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be required if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also close 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 inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in, Glass Window Repair but it can be expensive and is generally reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess, with sharp edges and pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding residue Then, seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but using a knife will give a more precise application, and a better seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it will be more adhesive and durability.

Apply a thin layer on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the drawn line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped prior to drying.