Glass Window Repair: 11 Things You're Forgetting To Do

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and often work under harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and eliminate the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective and can help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is required.

To fix a damaged window, you must remove the frame or sash, and place it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound, and the glazing points that secure the window. Keep an eye on the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the right size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double glazed windows repair-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call them to file a claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to the color of the.

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

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They also understand the best practices for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They're also familiar with different types of windows and are capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack can cause shards of glass to fly away, which could pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, since this will help prevent any future issues.

Begin by creating an epoxy mixture that has two parts. It is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they need to be mixed quickly. After the mixture is made, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is very thick and will dry very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner, the debris could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then match it to the wood frame.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a strong-duty trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're unable to get to the window fast enough, you can use silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the edge of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between the frame and glass, but it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replace your windows and will provide your home with a new look. Make sure the surface is clean before painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. In the end you should 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.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools at hand. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project in your possession. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and be prepared with plenty of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area where you work is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be in a position to make a claim with the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows that have a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to address the issue. The most expensive 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 with a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.

You can also seal up the gap between a window frame and a sill or threshold using a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to install and long-lasting however, it can be costly. It is usually reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed into place but they create virtually 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 gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass to the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe off any sanding traces and then seal the unfinished wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a thin bead of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the cut line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or glass Window repair spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.