How To Outsmart Your Boss In Glass Window Repair
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.
While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and make it easier to remove.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect the efficiency of your home. Consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.
The first step in fixing damaged windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any shards that remain within the window. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window in place. Make sure you keep the track of these components and their locations to ensure that they can be put back in place later.
Once the frame and sash are removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Before you begin, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized 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 glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.
If the manufacturer is accountable then you should call them and file an claim. After the new glass has been put in place, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could injure family members or pets. They're also used to working with various types of windows and are aware of issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.
Before you begin the process of repairing cracked window glass, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. A small crack can cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future problems.
Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared, apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. This should only take about a minute however it is important to work quickly since the mixture is very dense and quick drying.
Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy with a blade. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the wood frame.
You could consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
If you're unable to reach the window quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't completely fill the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the break in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges, and other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Also, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, as well as a few other tools, such as paper towels or a rag. You should also have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project in your possession. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have plenty of patience because it may take awhile for the paint to dry.
If you're using solvent-based paints, you must make sure that the area where you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.
You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water before 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 residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.
If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit claims for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to address the issue regardless of whether you have an old double glazed window repairs-pane glass with a cracked seal, or if you own an upgraded IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations where fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging product.
You can also seal up the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install however it is costly and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put to the floor, but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and debris.
To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give an easier application and a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass as it will be more durable and stick better.
Apply a small amount of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved and then wipe off any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.