10 Misconceptions Your Boss Has Concerning Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen can maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. 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 to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

When a window's pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is required.

The first step in repairing broken windows is to remove the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle and pull out any shards remaining in the window. Utilize a utility knife to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.

After you have removed the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you do so ensure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Measure 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 glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call the company to file an claim. After the new glass has been put in place, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This trick is not foolproof but it will slow down the development of the crack until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to work with various types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner and are therefore less likely than others to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows, and they may be aware of issues that aren't obvious to an inexperienced homeowner.

Before beginning the process of fixing cracked window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future problems.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They typically are composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only about a minute but it's important to get it done quickly as the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. The next step is to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the frame made of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

You can make an interim fix in the event that you are unable to access the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and can give your home a fresh look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using water and soap or ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the surface. Also you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll require brushes or sponges as well as a painter's tamper, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and be prepared with plenty of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to make a claim with the window company or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through 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 a upvc door repairs near me sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install, but it is costly and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be put to the floor however they provide virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and other debris.

To repair a cracked window seal, first employ a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass in the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed edges. After taking out the glazing points, clean out the grooves and sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide the most precise application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.