The 10 Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window and it can also help you avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. Take a look at the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is needed.

To fix a broken window, take off the frame or sash, and lay it flat on the work surface. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a utility knife to remove the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in the position. Keep an eye on the components and their locations so that they can be put back in place.

After the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Before doing this, make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If your crack is longer than an inch in length, you can prevent it from spreading by cutting the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to handle different types of glass. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially injure family members or pets. They're also familiar with different window types, 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, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack can cause shards to fly off, which could pose a risk to anyone living in or around the home. It is crucial to determine the cause of the crack, since this will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They typically are composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been prepared then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but it is important to work quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a knife. After that, you'll need clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it to the frame made of wood.

You could consider using a plastic cover for window repair a more robust option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also block out water, wind, bugs, and debris.

If you're unable to get to the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside of the broken window repairs. It won't seal the gap between the frame and glass completely, but it will hold the break in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean before painting. Clean the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other traces that could hinder the 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. Also you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need brushes or sponges as well as a painter's tamper along with a ruler, toothpicks and window repair a ruler. You should also have the paint and brushes you'll use to complete the project. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Have patience 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 space where you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to 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 could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.

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

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy losses. 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 the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable however, it can be costly. It is typically reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a damaged window seal, first employ a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the recess of the frame. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun, but the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a small amount of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it has dried.