Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, navigating huge glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety protocols.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

When a window's pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective and can help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is temporary or if you will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

The first step to repair a broken window is to take off the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards remaining in the window pane. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound, and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep the track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin make sure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this then you should call them and file a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it should be sprayed with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If the crack is greater than an inch in length, you can prevent it from spreading by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to handle different types of glass. They also know the best methods for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly around and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It is also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future problems.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and they need to be quickly mixed. After the mix has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only some minutes, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. After that, you'll need 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 to smooth out the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the frame of wood.

For a more durable solution think about using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and insects out.

You can make an interim solution when you are unable reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the crack in place while you repair it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace your windows and can give your home a fresh look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools like paper towels or a rag. You'll need the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have a good amount of patience as it can take some time for the paint to dry.

Also, ensure that the space you're working is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that could hinder paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to submit a claim to the dealer or window company that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced multiple problems with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are several ways to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you own an insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane or fixing 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 threshold or sill using a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to install and long-lasting however, it can be costly. It is usually reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed to the floor but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and other debris.

To repair a cracked window repair seal first, employ a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass in the frame's recess. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with either a putty knife or a caulking gun, however the knife is a better, more precise application and provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, as it will last longer and window repair adhere better.