Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in harsh weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective and can assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is needed.

The first step in fixing a broken window is to remove the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards remaining within the window. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their locations so they can be reinstalled.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is sized for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to also 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 and in this case, you must contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If the crack is greater than an inch you can stop it from expanding by cutting an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to work with various types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than others to leave behind scraps that could harm family members or pets. They're also familiar with different window types and are capable of identifying issues that aren't obvious to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small crack can cause shards of glass to fly and pose a risk to anyone inside or around the house. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, as this can prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are typically 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready, apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. It should take only a few minutes but it's important to get it done quickly as the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

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

Think about using a plastic lid 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 stop the crack from expanding and will also block out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you can repair it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a fresh new look. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Wash the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges as well as other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the surface. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have all the right tools in your arsenal. You'll require brushes or sponges painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is adequately ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Also, make sure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you use.

It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to make a claim with the window company or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to resolve the issue depending on regardless of whether you have an old double glazing repair-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you own a newer insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. 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 fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be nailed into place, but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, you must employ a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame's recess with sharp, pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare 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, more precise application and provides a stronger seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, since it will be more durable and adhere better.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the cut line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or errant drips before it is dry.