20 Things You Should Know About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

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

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and take off the old putty.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window and it can also help you prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. You should also consider the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is temporary or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.

To fix a damaged window, you must remove the frame or sash and place it on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any shards that remain in the window. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Make sure you keep an eye on the components and their locations so that they can be reinstalled later.

After the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the right size for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window doctor near me pane.

Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call the company to file an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly away and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, since this can prevent future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. It is usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It should only take a couple of minutes, but you need to be quick as the mixture is thick and drys very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of your window and then match it to the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option think about using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and insects out.

You can come up with an interim fix if you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely however it will keep the broken piece in place until you are able to repair it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may need to paint them. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools at hand. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll use to complete the project. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience because it could take a while for the paint to completely dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. You should also make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you use.

You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've had multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are many ways to resolve the issue, regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable however, it can be costly. It is usually used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put into place, but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand window replacement the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding sludge and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using a putty knife or caulking gun. However, a knife provides a better application that is more precise and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass as it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the cut line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.