Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can soften the old glue and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

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

To fix a broken window, you must remove the sash or frame and lay it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and then remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.

After removing the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glasses made 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 upvc window repair pane.

Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call the company to file an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If your crack is longer than an inch, you can prevent it from spreading by scoring the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it will slow down the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete an excellent job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs behind, which could potentially hurt pets or family members. They're also used to working with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a small crack can cause shards of glass to fly and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is prepared put it in the crack in the glass and let it dry. It will take just some minutes, but you must work quickly because the mixture is thick and dries quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. You'll need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean the area correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the window's edge and match it with the wood frame.

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

If you're unable to get to the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing your windows and will give your home a fresh look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Finally you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools at hand. You'll require a sponge or brush painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to completely dry.

It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, then you might be able to file a claim with the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass and the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be necessary if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current 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 close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess using sharp, pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding traces and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun. However, the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and a longer life.

Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window repairs into the frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and glass to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it is dry.