Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the kind of glass that is broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to take off the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and then remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in the position. Keep the track of the components and their locations so that they can be put back in place.

After you have removed the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase 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 each window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call them to make an claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After drying the compound and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If your crack is more than an inch in length you can stop it from spreading by scoring the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack to a manageable amount until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind scraps 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 problems that a novice home owner might not see.

Before beginning the process of fixing cracked upvc window repairs glass, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone in or around the home. It is crucial to determine the cause of the crack, since this can prevent future issues.

Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They are typically 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be mixed quickly. After the mixture is made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but you need to be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and drys quickly.

Once 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 the area properly, the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the wood frame.

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 prevent the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water, bugs, and debris.

If you're unable to reach the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't fully seal the gap between 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 cost-effective alternative to replacing your windows and will provide your home with a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges and other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using on hand. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have plenty of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

It is also important to ensure that the room you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be able to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had several issues with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. 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 existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. 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 cracked window seal, first use a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves remove the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass into the recess of the frame. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe away any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better application that is more precise and creates a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, since it will last longer and will adhere better.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it has dried.