10 Things Everyone Hates About Glass Window Repair Glass Window Repair
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen are able to move large panes of tempered glass from a high point above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
While wearing protective clothing remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun may help to soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.
Replacement
It's tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is needed.
The first step in fixing damaged windows is to remove the sash, or frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any remaining shards in the window. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.
After you have removed the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. Take measurements 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, purchase double-strength glass that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window, this may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call them to make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of glazier's compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do an excellent job. They know how to dispose of waste safely and are therefore less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass which could cause harm to family pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with different kinds of windows, and may be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner would not notice.
Before beginning the process of fixing cracked window glass, be sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack can cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future problems.
Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only a few minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.
After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. The next step is to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it to the frame made of wood.
For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
If you're unable to reach the window quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply run a bead of the stuff around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the crack in place while you repair it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools such as a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need to complete the project. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.
If you are using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the space where you work is adequately ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.
It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Make use of 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 dry before you begin to paint them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to file a claim with the dealer or window company who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had numerous issues with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
If you have double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it may be necessary if fog or condensation 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 then filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close the gap between a window frame and a sill or threshold with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing, or stapled into place, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they provide only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.
To repair a damaged window seal, first employ a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass into the frame's recess. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give an easier application and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.
Apply a thin layer across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and Sidney Froude clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.
