Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a high point above the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old glue and speed up removal.

Replacement

It is tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it will also help to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is damaged to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step to repair damaged windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and then remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Be sure to keep the track of the location of these components so that they can be replaced later.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, purchase double-strength glass made to these exact measurements. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you must contact 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 the compound has dried you can paint the frame to match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack down to a manageable amount until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They are able to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other people to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows and could be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner would not notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and could pose a danger to anyone within or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. It is usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and nearby must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is done apply it to the glass crack and allow it to dry. This should only take about a minute, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is very thick and nearby fast-drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area properly, the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the wood frame.

Consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're not able to reach the window in a timely manner then you can apply silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't seal the gap between the frame and glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you can repair it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replace windows and provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other traces that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Also you should 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, be sure you have all the right tools nearby. You'll require a sponge or brush painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience because it could take a while for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room in which you work is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, then you might be able to file a claim with 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 while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are many ways to address the issue, regardless of whether you have an older double glazing Streatham-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you own a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame but it may be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal 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 put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to put in however, it can be expensive and is usually used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that hold the glass into the frame's recess using sharp and pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe away any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide an easier application and a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it is more durable and will adhere better.

Apply a thin layer along the inside edge of frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were not properly applied before it has dried.