Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

If a Window Replacement near me pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective and can help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and pull out any remaining shards. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Be sure to keep track of the components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the right size for the 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, purchase double-strength glass made to these exact measurements. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending 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 installed, it must be sprayed with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried, 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 a razor blade just beyond the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools to do an excellent job. They also know the best practices for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave crumbs in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with different kinds of windows and could be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's also important to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future problems.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. This should only take a few minutes but it's important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you do not clean the area correctly, the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the frame made of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic covering. 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 water, wind and bugs out.

You can create an interim solution when you are unable reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the break in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace windows and give your house a new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of 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 surface. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer, and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll require either a brush or sponge as well as a painter's tamper, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the brushes and paints you'll use in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience as it can take a while for the paint to fully dry.

Also, ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be in a position to file a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly the case if you've experienced several issues with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to address the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double glazing repair-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you own an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be required in situations where fog or condensation is creating energy losses. Other alternatives include replacing the current 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 fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is cheap and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled in place, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to install and durable however, it can be costly. It is typically reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor, but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to force the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or errant drips prior to drying.