The 10 Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, navigating huge glass panes. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun may help to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

It's tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. It is cheaper to replace windows and it can also help prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

To fix a damaged window, remove the sash or frame and lay it flat on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining shards. Use a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that secure the window. Make sure you keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure that they can be reinstalled later.

After you've removed the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window the window repairs may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They also understand the best methods for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows and may be able to spot problems that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly around and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, as this could prevent future issues.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. It is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is very dense and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy using a putty blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the window's edge and match it with the frame made of wood.

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 use masking tape to cover the glass. This will keep the crack from expanding and will also keep out water, wind, bugs, and debris.

If you're not able to reach the window quickly and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely seal the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might consider repainting them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. In the end you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

Make sure you have the right tools in your arsenal in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools such as paper towels or a rag. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll need for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience as it can take some time for the paint to fully dry.

It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry more quickly. You should also make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you apply.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to make claims for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are a variety of options to address the issue depending on regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window repairs near me that has cracks in the seal or if you have a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single pane or fixing it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and simple to install however it can be expensive and is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put to the floor however they provide virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and debris.

To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that hold the glass in the frame's recess using sharp and pointed ends. After getting rid of the glazing points remove the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give the most precise application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, since it will last longer and adhere better.

Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it is dry.