Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They work in extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can 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 windows is typically more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and pull out any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Keep an eye on the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.

After the frame and sash are removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install the new glass. Before you begin make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and submit a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If your crack is more than an inch in length You can stop it from expanding by cutting an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This technique isn't 100% infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave crumbs that are left behind, which could injure family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different kinds of windows and could be able to spot issues that a home owner with no experience would not notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, which could pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only some minutes, but you must be quick because the mixture is thick and will dry very 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 crack of glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the wood frame.

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

If you're not able to get to the window quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely 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 a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and will give your home a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove 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 prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window repairs. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools nearby. You will need brushes or sponges painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is adequately ventilated. This will decrease the chance of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap 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 dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be eligible to submit a claim to the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous problems with condensation or damaged glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame but it may be required 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 through 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, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are subject to high abrasion. 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 fix a cracked window seal, first use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves remove the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass into the frame's recess. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding residue Then, seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give an easier application and a more secure seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass windows as it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount of the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it dries.