Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you'll need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and remove any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and glazing points that help to hold the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure that they can be put back in place later.

After removing the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before you begin, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly designed for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or glazing points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the warranty of the window the window may 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 essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the crack to a manageable level until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could harm family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.

Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but it is important to work quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a putty blade. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it with the frame made of wood.

For a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.

If you're not able to get to the window repair near me quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass however it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replace your windows and can give your house a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use 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 avoid transferring oils from your hands onto the surface. Also you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room in which you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. Use a protective mask when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to scrub away any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry prior to coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer who 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 problems with condensation or damaged glass.

Sealing

If you have double glazed window repairs-pane windows with damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods for fixing the problem. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also seal up the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and air.

To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that hold the glass in the frame's recess using sharp and pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, the knife is a better application that is more precise and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, since it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin layer of putty on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it has dried.