How to Repair a Broken Window

If it's from a storm or a ball kicked by your neighbor's kids broken windows are not something to ignore. It could cause more problems including leakage of water or a draft which increases your energy costs.

Depending on the size of the crack, there are several ways you can repair it. Here are some options to consider.

Tape

A piece of old-fashioned tape can be used to temporarily fix cracks in your windows. It's simple to use, affordable and effective. Be sure to cover both sides of the crack so that it is as secure as it can be. This will stop air from entering, which can lead to further damage to the glass and even shatters inside the window. Clear tape is a good alternative since it looks more appealing than duct tape and doesn't leave a sticky residue once you remove it.

There is also specialized adhesive tape designed specifically to repair damaged windows and it can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores. It comes in two lengths of 30' x 2' and creates a invisible patch to stop the crack or tear from spreading further. It is ideal for boat enclosure windows and RV or tent vinyl windows, and even soft top car windows. It is easy to use and requires no specialized tools or expertise. Just cut the correct size, take off the release paper and apply it. It is UV and salt water resistant and is made from an extremely durable material that can stand up to the harshest conditions. You will save a lot of money by not needing to replace the entire window.

Super Glue

Super glue can be used to repair small cracks or glazed chips in glass. These adhesives join with hydroxyl ions on the surface of glass and create a firm grip in seconds. Cyanoacrylate glues are great for affixing metal, wood and ceramic to glass as they are able to withstand moisture and high temperatures. If you have a large project to finish, however, you may be interested in using silicone or epoxy glues for a more durable hold and quicker drying.

Before applying any kind of glue to a broken window it is important to prepare the surface. You will want to remove all debris and ensure both surfaces are clean and dry. It's also a good idea to roughen the surface, particularly if it's extremely smooth. A slight sanding gives the adhesive more surface area that it can adhere to, which results in a better bond.

If you are ready to begin the actual repair, it is crucial to use a glue that is specifically designed for glasses. This will ensure that the glue is safe and won't leave any unattractive marks or fingerprints. Choose clear glue that will become transparent once it's dried. Avoid glues that expand once they dry, as this can cause cracked glass.

You'll also have to think about how the glass will be used. If it's intended to be kept inside and won't be exposed to a lot of stress, then a standard super glue can be used. In contrast, if the glass is going to be used as part of a windshield it's best to choose an adhesive that is weatherproof.

Super glues can cure in a variety of ways. It is important to read the directions carefully because some require chemical accelerators in order to accelerate the drying process. It's recommended to work in a well-ventilated location and open any windows to allow more air circulation, since this will aid in helping the glue dry more quickly. In addition you can utilize a fan to boost the air flow around your work area, allowing the glue to dry more quickly.

Glass Repair Film

Glass repair film is a cost efficient and practical way of making cracked windows safe until they can be professionally repaired or replaced. It's quick and easy to install and can be completed by anyone, not only an experienced tradesman. It is less expensive than a traditional window board and can keep the elements out and keep heat in. It also gives the appearance of a glazed window and is perfect for schools, hospitals glasshouses, offices, shops and factories.

When a window is broken the sharp shards that are left behind can cause severe injuries, and glazed even death. Window safety films have an adhesive that is strong and makes fractured glass far less hazardous, securing the shards within the film. The film is transparent, which means light can still flow through the window, and it is much more attractive than a boarding up - especially in businesses that depend on the presence of customers at their premises.

The film is cut to size using scissors or a knife and upvc window Repairs is supplied with an easily peelable liner on the reverse that is printed with a grid to assist in cutting to size. It can be placed on either side of a window. If the surface is uneven it can be overlapping 10cm to provide additional security.

There are a variety of safety window films that are available depending on the type of breakage. Gray safety films are recommended for star breaks, whereas amber safety films are ideal for bullseye breakages and other breaks with a lot of small cracks. Films should be applied on clean, damp glass. It is recommended that you employ a polyethylene squeegee as well as soap solution. After the film is stuck to the glass, it is best to let it cure for a couple of days.

This self-adhesive, heavy-duty film is designed to help stabilize and weatherproof damaged or broken glass until a permanent fix can be found. Eastman Films has years of experience in the production of safety and security window films. The film is available in 15-metre rolls that have 914mm of width and is supplied with a backing sheet as well as a release liner.

Paint

When painting a window, it is essential to complete an excellent job. This will make the appearance of the paint more appealing and will allow it to stick better. Before you begin, ensure that the window is clean and scraped to get rid of any paint or wood that are sagging or rotten. It is also important to take out any hardware, such as latches and handles. You should also sand down the surface you are going to paint. This will create an even surface that the primer and paint will bond with.

It is essential to shield the surrounding areas of the window with plastic sheeting and painters tape. This will stop paint from getting on areas that aren't supposed to be painted. I prefer green frog tape to do this as it provides an uncluttered line and makes it easy to take off when the time comes. It is also an excellent idea to use painters tape for any edges that are delicate that adjoin the wall surfaces.

Once the window is secured it's time to begin the actual painting. You'll want to apply several coats of primer, and let each one dry before moving onto the next. After you've finished priming, it is a good idea to give the entire surface a light sanding with some fine-grit sandpaper. This will help make the surface smooth for the next coat of paint and will also assist in getting rid of any dust that may have accumulated.

You will have to wait until the acrylic or oil-based primers or paints have dried completely before you can begin painting. This could take as long as a day, depending on the brand you're using.

Once the primer and paint are completely dry, it's now time to paint. Paint the rails (horizontals first) prior to the stiles (verticals). This will help to prevent any drips from getting on the glass. Keep a clean cloth in the car to wipe off any drips of paint immediately.