Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a high point above the ground. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the glazing points made of metal and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and eliminate the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that is broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll need to invest in an option that is more permanent.

To fix a damaged window, take off the frame or sash and place it on the floor. While wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep the track of the components and where they are so they can be reinstalled.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is accountable you should contact them and submit an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This trick won't be foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack to a manageable level until you are able to take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs behind, which could potentially hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different window doctor types and may be aware of issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you will help prevent any future issues.

Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They usually consist of made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It will take just some minutes, but you need to be quick as the mixture is thick and dries quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. After that, you'll need clean the area around the crack of glass. If you do not clean the area properly, the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then align it with the frame of wood.

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

You can come up with an interim solution when you are unable reach the window in time. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and can give your home a new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, make sure you have all the right tools at hand. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and Window Doctor other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll need for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to completely dry.

It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the chance of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Use 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 dry before you start coating them.

If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file claims for repair or replacement with the window Doctor company or the dealer who sold them. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced several problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

If you have double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing 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 up with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also fill in the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled in place however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and durable however it can be expensive. It is typically reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed to the floor, but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and other debris.

To fix a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding traces Then, seal the bare wood with a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give a more precise application, and a stronger seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, as it will be more durable and stick better.

Apply a thin layer 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 the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.