10 Myths Your Boss Has About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen can maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window and it can also help you avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. Consider the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.

The first step in repairing damaged windows is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Make sure you keep an eye on these components and their locations to ensure that they can be replaced later.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper 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 precise dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.

Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do an excellent job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also used to working with different window types, and they may be aware of issues that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. A minor crack could cause shards of glass to fly away, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It's also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, so that it could help avoid future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are typically a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they need to be quickly mixed. After the mixture is made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should only take some minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and drys very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly, the debris could cause further damage to your glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and to match it with the frame made of wood.

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

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the break in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might need to paint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and can give your house a new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as 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 glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, be sure you have all the right tools nearby. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll need to complete the project. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience as it can take some time for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space in which you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder 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 a claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to fix the problem depending on regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you have an upgraded insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. 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 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 seal the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame, but it does not provide much 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 subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be put into place however they provide little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.

To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess, upvc Repairs with sharp and pointed edges. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe off any sanding traces, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide the most precise application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, as it is more durable and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of glue on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were not properly applied before it has dried.