Window Glass Repairs

Condensation can cause damage to the seal on your double-pane windows and structural integrity. If you are a homeowner or building owner with a problem such as this, there are a variety of temporary fixes to look at before you commit to a more permanent solution.

Take measurements of the height and width of the opening for the frame. Subtract 1/8-inch from each measurement to order glass panes that are slightly smaller that will make it easier to install and provide the room for seasonal expansion and contraction.

Cracks

A pebble that is thrown from your lawnmower hitting the window, a beloved vase being tipped over by a cat, or a abrupt change in the weather can cause cracks to your windows. Generally speaking, these kinds of cracks can be fixed at home if you are willing to spend just a few minutes. But, if your crack is larger than an inch, a single pane window or double-paned glass that has holes in both panes, it's best to contact a professional to fix the damage.

A cracked window that's only small or near the edge of the frame may be repaired by placing an inch of clear packing tape on each side of the crack. This will help keep the crack from expanding and also seal the gap to the outside, keeping out wind, rain, bugs, and debris. Be aware that this fix is only temporary since cracks in glass typically spread over time.

For larger cracks in the glass you can use a two-part epoxy to fill the crack. First, thoroughly clean the area and remove any broken glass. Mix the epoxy in a place that is well ventilated on a piece or paper plate. The mixture is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. However, it is important to always follow the instructions on the product you are using. The epoxy becomes thicker quickly after mixing and should be applied immediately. Apply the adhesive to the crack and smooth it in place using a putty knife. Allow to dry for Window Repair five minutes.

Clear nail polish is an alternative option for crack repair at home. Similar to super glue the nail polish will fill in and bind the cracks together, stopping them from spreading. Let the nail polish completely dry before washing or cleaning. This can cause the nail varnish to peel off. You can also make use of the caulking gun for filling gaps that exist between your frame and glass. This is especially crucial for older windows as they get older and these gaps could eventually allow water and other elements to enter the home.

Leaks

In-home accidents, such as the misplaced baseball or furniture move that wasn't properly planned, are the most common causes of broken glass. Outdoor incidents, such as strong winds can cause the glass to blow out of its frame. Caulking can be used to repair cracks in glass. This repair method can be achieved using polysulfide or silicone caulking dependent on the type of window glass and the materials used in making the frame.

The best time to perform this repair on your windows is when the weather is warm and dry. This allows you to apply the caulking in a dry environment and allows it plenty of time to cure before it's exposed to rain. Before you begin the caulking process, you need to inspect the window both inside and out to discover the source of the leak from. Check that the weep holes in the frame are free of any debris or insect carcasses. This will prevent the water from getting in.