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

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, navigating huge panes of glass. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points and the glazing putty by 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 the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an alternative that is more durable.

The first step in repairing damaged windows is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and then remove any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in place. Keep an eye on the components and their locations so they can be reinstalled.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin ensure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.

Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you need to contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to the color of the.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take more 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 methods for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave crumbs that are left behind, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They're also used to working with different types of windows, and they may be aware of issues that might not be apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, be sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly and pose a risk to anyone within or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is done put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is very thick and will dry very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it with the wood frame.

To make a more durable option think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to reach the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Wash the window repairs with water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other traces that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, make sure you have all the right tools nearby. You'll need a sponge or brush, painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You'll need the brushes and paints you will be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to fully dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room in which you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. You should also make sure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you use.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly using warm water and soap before you paint it. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window repairs company or dealer that sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging agent.

You can also fill in the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and simple to install however, it is costly and is usually used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. 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 damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, remove the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but the use of a knife allows for a more precise application, and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.