Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen can maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They work in 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 can to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

It can be tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. 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. Examine the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is required.

To repair a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash and place it flat on your work surface. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any shards that remain within the window. Then, use a utility knife to remove the glazing compound and glazing points that help to hold the glass in place. Be sure to keep an eye on the components and their locations to ensure that they can be replaced later.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is properly 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, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call the company to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be bedded in with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting an arc of the edge of a blade just over the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof however it can slow the development of the crack until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the appropriate tools and know how to handle various types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than others to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows, and may be able to spot problems that a home owner with no experience would not notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It's important to determine what caused the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they need to be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It will take just a few minutes, but it's essential to get it done quickly as the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you do not clean the area properly the residue could cause further damage to your glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the window doctor's edge and then match it to the frame made of wood.

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

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a new look. Make sure the window doctor near me is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to get rid of oil smudges and other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll need brushes or sponges painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have a good amount of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the space in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry more quickly. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin coating them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be in a position to submit a claim to the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially relevant if you've had several issues with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to fix the problem regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double-pane glass with a cracked seal, or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be glued, nailed or stapled in place, but it does not provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in however, it is costly and is typically reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points clean out 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.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun. However, using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and creates a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.