The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.

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

Replacement

If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective, and can also assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.

To fix a broken window, remove the sash or frame and place it flat on the floor. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and window repair pull out any shards that remain in the window pane. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep track of the components and their locations so they can be reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double glazed window repairs-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

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

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring an arc of a razor blade that is just above the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other people to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They're also accustomed to working with different kinds of windows, and may be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack could cause shards of glass to fly around and could pose a danger to anyone within or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They are typically 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready put it in the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It should take only about a minute but it's important to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to your glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then match it to the frame made of wood.

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

If you're not able to get to the window in a timely manner then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside edge of the broken window repairs. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely however it will keep the broken piece in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. 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 a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools, such as paper towels or a rag. You'll need the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to completely dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area in which you work is well ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be in a position to file a claim with the dealer or window company who sold them to cover any repair or Window Repair replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with condensation or broken glass and the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is typically used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give a more precise application, and a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows as it has better adhesion and a longer life.

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 the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.