9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Window Pane Replacement

How to Do Window Pane Replacement

If a window pane cracks or breaks It should be replaced immediately. This could result in the loss of energy efficiency or moisture build-up between the two panes.

The replacement of a window pane is cheaper than replacing an entire window glass replacement and is easily done by homeowners of all ages. To replace a window pane, you'll have to remove the window that is in use and clean the frame before you apply new putty.

Removal of the old Pane

The first step to replace the window pane is to remove the old pane from the window. This can be a dangerous job, so it is essential to wear protective equipment such as gloves and a mask. If you can it is recommended to work on the floor and use a ladder which can be secured to prevent falling. After the old window is removed, you can begin working on the window frame. This is the perfect time to scrub the area and lightly sand it. Apply a layer of linseed onto the frame of the wood after this to ensure that the glazing compound remain flexible.

When you are ready begin the actual project, make sure that your workspace is clear of any debris and that you have all the tools you will need. Make use of a utility knife to scrape off any old putty that has accumulated on the glass or inside the window frame. It may take a bit of time and effort, but it is essential to a quality finished product.

After you remove the old putty, you'll have an opening that is clear to accommodate your new window. Take a measurement of the opening and subtract 1/8 inch from both the length and width to ensure you get a new window pane that fits well. You can also take a portion of the old window pane to a hardware store to match the type of glass and the thickness.

Window panes can help make your home more efficient by reducing heat loss, glare and noise. Replacing a single window pane is not a difficult task.

After replacing the damaged pane, you'll need caulk to seal the edge of the window to ensure it stays in position. This will not just give your window a stunning finish, but will also make it energy efficient and waterproof. The installation of window films can save you money on energy bills by decreasing the amount of heat lost through your windows.

Take the Putty off

It is often difficult to remove the glazing putty used to secure the glass panes that are tempered in their frames. It hardens as it dries and can make it very difficult to remove without cracking the glass. To avoid this, the old putty should be removed before installing the new window pane. Removing window putty is not an easy task but it can be done with a bit of perseverance and effort. It is recommended to wear gloves made of leather and eye protection when working with glass because it could be extremely dangerous.

Remove any nails or spriggs holding the window in place prior to you begin removing the putty. These nails were used to hold the window in place prior to when upvc or double glazing was made available. They are typically in the corners and can be removed with the use of a screwdriver, or a hacksaw if they are visible. If any are hidden, you will require a small chisel (or putty chisel) to remove them from the frame.

Once the nail is removed you'll need mineral spirits to wash away any remaining pieces of old putty. The product is available at many hardware stores and is best used in a well ventilated area. Apply the oil in short bursts, as overheating the wood or paint can cause it to crack or explode.

A heat gun can also be used to soften the putty. This will work better on putty that has been painted over or hardened and can be very efficient. Keep moving when using a heating gun. If you leave it in the same spot for too long, the wood may be burned and the glass cracked.

You can also use a steel wool to take off the putty, but this method is not as efficient and can be quite messy. This method should only be used in a last-resort and is not recommended in homes with children.

Remove the Glazing Points made of metal

A baseball thrown or the tree branch that is blown off can cause damage to a window. While most people believe that a damaged window requires full replacement of the frame and sash, in some cases just replacing the glass can be enough to repair the view of your home and reduce energy bills.

The first step in replacing a window is to remove the metal glazing points that hold the old glass in place. With a putty knife scrape off as much softened glaze as you can to expose the glass points. There should be at most four of them, centered on either side of the frame. Once you can see the metal then use needle-nose pliers to grasp each one and pull it straight out. Be careful not to pull too hard. If the point is stifling or breaks, you may cause damage to the frame and have to replace it.

Once the putty and metal glazing points have been removed, it is now time to prepare the frame to accommodate the new pane. Make sure the grooves are clean and free of cracks and dents. Utilizing a heating gun to assist in this process. But be cautious and make use of low temperatures to prevent the wood warping or becoming damaged.

Then, if the glass is double pane, bring a shard of the old window with you to make sure that the new pane fits properly. Then, place a small bead of silicone sealant on the inside of the frame rabbet, and apply the new window to it. Then, trim off any excess sealant with a razor blade and apply a coat of exterior paint to finish the job.

If you have a single pane of glass that you want to install, skip this step and proceed directly to the next. If the new glass is different thickness from the original, purchase an appropriate sized piece of glass from your local glass cutter. Place a glazier’s push point at each corner of the frame's rabbet, prior to installing the new pane (two per side for windows with small windows, more for large windows). This will add additional support to the pane, and Window Pane Replacement also help keep it from becoming dislodged as time passes.

Installing the New Pane

Window panes aren't just there for appearances; they can also help improve efficiency of energy, shield your home from the elements and insects, as well as improve security. Therefore, if they break or are damaged, it's essential to replace them as fast as possible. However, many homeowners aren't aware of how to do it themselves. It's easy to fix a damaged window pane. You'll need just some materials and easy steps.

Begin by removing the old window making sure not to cut yourself while you work. Make sure you have a towel handy to clean off any remaining glass. Save the shards in case of need a replacement window. After removing the old glazing, measure the rough opening of the frame using tape. Note down the measurements and subtract 1/8 inch on each side to determine the new glass size. This helps ensure a tight fit and allows for natural expansion and contraction of the glass. You can bring the measurements to a local hardware store or home improvement shop and they will cut a new piece of glass for you. If you are able take a shard from the existing window to match the thickness and type.

Apply a small amount of latex caulk to the edges of the glass after it is in place. This will form a seal. Then, insert glazier's points into the holes of the wood frame close to the edge of the glass. You'll need two points per side for eight points total.

You can also install any remaining wood molding around the frame's edges. Make sure you clean the molding and putty well before reinstalling them so they do not interfere with the new pane.

It is tempting to put off replacing a damaged pane of glass, but this could cause further damage to both the glass and surrounding sash. You may also need to replace the entire window in the future. Anyone with a basic tool can repair a single damaged pane of glass.