Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering huge panes of glass. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.

To repair a broken window, take off the frame or sash, and lay it flat on the work surface. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any remaining shards within the window. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in the position. Make sure you keep track of the location of these components to make sure they can be put back in place later.

After the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before doing this make sure that the opening in the frame is size 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. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

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

If your crack is longer than an inch, you can prevent it from expanding by slicing the crack with a small arc, window replacement just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof however it can slow the growth of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other people to leave behind scraps which could cause harm to family members or pets. They are also familiar with 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 glasses and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are typically 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is prepared put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is thick and will dry quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't do this correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and align it with the frame of wood.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water bugs, debris, and water.

If you're unable to reach the window fast enough then you can apply silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass, but it will keep the crack in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window using water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Finally it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools nearby. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools such as paper towels or a rag. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll use to complete the project. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience as it can take awhile for the paint to dry.

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

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. 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 that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to make an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold the windows. This is particularly the case if you've experienced numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to address the issue depending on whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you have an upgraded insulation 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 could be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also close the gap between windows and a sill or threshold using a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place, but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.

To fix a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess using sharp edges and pointed ends. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. 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, the use of a knife allows for a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a thin layer of putty across the inside of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.