Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an alternative that is more durable.

To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or window repair sash and place it flat on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and pull out any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Be sure to keep an eye on the location of these components so that they can be replaced later.

Once the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glasses 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.

Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been erected, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound is dry you can paint the frame to match.

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

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools needed to complete the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than others to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or members of the family. They're also familiar with various types of windows and may be aware of issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. It is usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been prepared, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It will take just about a minute but it's important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. You'll then need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean the area correctly, the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the window's edge and match it with the frame made of wood.

For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trashbag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to access the window in time. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and it can give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window repairs is clean before painting. Wash the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other traces that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Also it is recommended to 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 on repainting your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools nearby. You will need brushes or sponges, painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you will be using on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the risk of breathing toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that could affect the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or the dealer who sold the windows. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to fix the problem regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window that has a cracked seal, or if you have an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or fixing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and Window repair filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is generally used in areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be nailed into place, but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass into the recess of the frame. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding debris, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with either a putty knife or a caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better application that is more precise and creates a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it will be more durable and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of glue on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped prior to drying.