Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They follow strict safety protocols and often work under extreme weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and speed up removal.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective and may assist in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.

The first step to repair a broken window is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in place. Make sure you keep the track of the components and their locations so that they can be replaced later.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window, this may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to make an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be bedded in with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring an arc of a razor blade just beyond the crack could help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They're also familiar with different types of windows and may be able to spot problems that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly away and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It is important to determine what caused the crack, so that you will help prevent any future problems.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It should take only some minutes, but it is important to work quickly because the mixture is very thick and dries quickly.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't do it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the frame of wood.

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

You can create an interim solution in the event that you are unable to access the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't seal the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and will give your home a new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Finally you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools nearby. You'll need either a brush or sponge, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you'll be using on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and be prepared with plenty of patience as it can take awhile for the paint to dry.

It is also important to ensure that the room you're working in is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry quicker. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you apply.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to file a claim for repair or replacement with the window company or the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if you have experienced numerous issues with condensation or broken glass while the windows are still covered under warranty.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to fix the problem depending on whether you have an old double glazing Stockport-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. 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 fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole into 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 with 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 weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to put in however it can be costly and is generally 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 provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To fix a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that hold the glass into the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points clean the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun, however the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also provides a stronger seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and a longer life.

Apply a small amount the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any drips or Double Glazing Stockport caulk that were applied incorrectly before it dries.