The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

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

The first step in fixing a broken window is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and pull out any remaining shards. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that secure the window. Be sure to keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure that they can be reinstalled later.

After removing the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin, make sure that the opening in the frame is sized for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and submit an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other people to leave behind a mess that could harm family pets or members of the family. They're also accustomed to working with different window types, and they may be able to spot problems that aren't obvious to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack could cause shards of glass to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It's also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future issues.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. They usually consist of composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but you must work quickly because the mixture is very thick and drys quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and align it with the wood frame.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

You can create a temporary fix when you are unable reach the window in time. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely, but it will hold the break in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace your windows and can give your house a new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need either a brush or sponge, painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll use for the project in your possession. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience because it may take some time 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 reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be in a position to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double glazing windows repair-pane windows with broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas subjected 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 dust, air, and other debris.

To repair a broken window seal using a putty knife, you need to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that hold the glass in the frame's recess using sharp, pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe off any sanding traces and then seal the unfinished wood with 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 a more precise application, and a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, since it will be more durable and stick better.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inner edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or drips that have escaped before it is dry.