The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

It is tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it when panes break. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective and can assist in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the kind of glass that is damaged to determine if it is temporary or if you'll require a more permanent solution.

The first step to repair damaged windows is to remove the sash, or frame and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window pane. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that secure the window. Be sure to keep the track of the location of these components to ensure that they can be replaced later.

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

If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and file an claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound is dry, you can paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste safely, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or family members. They're also familiar with different window types, and they may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, ensure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack can cause shards of glass to fly away, which could pose a risk to anyone who lives in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, as this could prevent future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They typically are a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It will take just some minutes, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and quick drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the residue 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 edges of the window and Window Replacement to match it to the wood frame.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.

If you're not able to get to the window doctor in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely however it will keep the break in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Wash the window with 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 avoid transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. In the end, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have all the right tools in your arsenal. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you'll be using on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and be prepared with plenty of patience as it can take some time for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. Also, make sure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be eligible to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay 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 with a cracked seal or newer 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 necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or put in place, but it is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer very little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To fix a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass in the recess of the frame. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand 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. However, a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, since it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any drips or caulk that were applied incorrectly before it dries.