The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

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

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and then remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Make sure you keep track of the components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before doing this make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible then you should call them and file a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If your crack is more than an inch you can stop it from spreading by cutting the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools needed to complete the job correctly. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.

Before you begin the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly away and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. After the mixture is made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should only take a couple of minutes, but you must work quickly because the mixture is very thick and drys very quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it with the wood frame.

For a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic covering. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water bugs, debris, and water.

If you're not able to reach the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the damaged glass. It won't seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely, but it will hold the broken piece in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might need to paint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Wash the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges and other traces which can hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Also it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools nearby. You will need brushes or sponges as well as a painter's tamper as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room where you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Be 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 able to submit a claim to the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are many ways to resolve the issue depending on regardless of whether you have an older double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you own an upgraded insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be necessary if condensation or fog 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 close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into 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 expensive. It is usually used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put to the floor, but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess, with sharp edges and pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give an easier application and a stronger seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and durability.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inside 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 edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it has dried.