The 10 Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can help soften the old glue and speed up removal.

Replacement

It's tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help you avoid other issues that could affect the efficiency of your home. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is temporary or if you'll need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to take off the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards remaining within the window. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Be sure to keep an eye on the components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.

After the frame and window Repair sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible, you can call them and make an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If your crack is more than an inch, you can prevent it from spreading by slicing an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This trick is not foolproof but it will slow down the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows and are able to spot problems that might not be apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting repair work on cracked glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, as this could prevent future issues.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They usually consist of a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is thick and dries very quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't clean it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're not able to reach the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass, but it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the window's surface. In the end, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will help the paint last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You will need either a brush or sponge as well as a painter's tamper, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using on hand. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Have patience, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to file claims for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or the dealer who sold the windows. This is especially relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows that have a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging product.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install however it can be expensive and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are cheap. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a broken window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take 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, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue Then, seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but using a knife will give an easier application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it will be more durable and adhere better.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window repairs into the frame in a way that the cut line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved hand and remove any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it has dried.