Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high off the ground, maneuvering massive glass panes. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can soften the old glue and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the kind of glass that is broken to determine if this is temporary or if you'll need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

To fix a broken window, take off the frame or sash, and place it flat on the floor. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards remaining within the window. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the 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 cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window the window may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to make an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be sprayed with a thin coating of glazier's compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the growth 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 and have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They are able to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or members of the family. They're also used to working with different types of windows and may be able to spot problems that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's also crucial to determine what caused the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future problems.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. They are usually composed of a 50/50 blend of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but you need to be quick as the mixture is thick and dries very quickly.

After the epoxy has 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 properly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the window's edge and match it to the frame made of wood.

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

If you're unable to reach the window repairs in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the fracture until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may need to paint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace your windows and can provide your home with a new look. Make sure the surface is clean before painting. Wash the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges as well as other residues 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 glass surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, be sure you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll need brushes or window Repair sponges painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the brushes and paints you'll use in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to fully dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the space in which you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to scrub off any oil or grease that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are dry before you begin painting them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to make claims for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or dealer who sold them. This is especially relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation even though the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane or repair 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 windows and a threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be glued, nailed or Window repair stapled to the frame, but it does not provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install however it can be costly and is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed to the floor, but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and other debris.

To repair a broken window seal using a putty knife, you need to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass in the frame's recess. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding sludge 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. However, using a knife will give the most precise application and a stronger seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it is more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin bead of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were not properly applied before it has dried.