5 Laws That Anyone Working In Glass Window Repair Should Be Aware Of

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and frequently work in harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

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

The first step in fixing a broken window is to take off the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and then remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin make sure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion 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 a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible, you can call them and submit a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't infallible, but it will slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially injure family members or pets. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner might not be able to notice.

Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been prepared, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take a couple of minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is very thick and will dry very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the wood frame.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will keep the crack from expanding, and will also block out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

You can create an interim solution when you are unable access the window in an efficient manner. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely however it will keep the break in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. 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, make sure you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need either a brush or sponge, 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 have plenty of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to submit a claim to the upvc window repairs manufacturer or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to fix the problem depending on whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you own a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is causing energy losses. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt is affordable and can be fixed by gluing, nailing, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be fixed into place however they provide very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal first, use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- small fasteners that hold the glass into the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris and then seal the unfinished wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear 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. Select a putty made specifically for glass as it is more durable and adhere better.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it has dried.