Beware Of These "Trends" Concerning Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, cut 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

It's tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the kind of glass that is broken to determine if this is a temporary fix or if you will require a more permanent solution.

The first step to repair 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 frame and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that hold the glass in the position. Make sure you keep an eye on these components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you do so, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you need to contact the company to file an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After drying the compound and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than others to leave behind pieces of glass which could cause harm to family pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows, and may be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not see.

Before you begin the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small crack can cause shards of glass to fly around and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It is important to determine what caused the crack, so that you will help prevent any future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. They typically are composed of a 50/50 blend of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is prepared, apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. This should only take about a minute, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is very dense and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the wood frame.

For a more durable solution think about using a plastic cover. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, however you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from expanding, and will also keep out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

You can create an interim solution if you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Simply place a tiny amount of the substance around the outside 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 great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and will give your home a new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Wash the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Finally it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools on hand in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need brushes or sponges, painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project in your possession. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience as it can take a while for the paint to fully dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area in which you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any grease or oil that could hinder paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to submit a claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them. This is particularly the case if you've experienced numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows that have a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to address the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog cause energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, or repairing it by drilling a small hole in 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 threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be glued, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put to the floor but they create very little or no protection between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, first use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass into the recess of the frame. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun, however a knife provides a better, more precise application and provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows, as it will be more adhesive and durability.

Apply a thin layer of putty across the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the upvc window repairs into the frame in a way that the cut line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and glass to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved hand and remove any drips or caulk that were applied incorrectly before it dries.