Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving huge glass panes. They adhere to strict safety standards and are often working in harsh weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, take off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun will help to soften and take off the old putty.
Replacement
If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.
The first step in repairing broken windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, carefully wiggle and pull out any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a utility knife to remove the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.
After you've removed the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around each window pane.
Based on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call them to file a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. Once the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack down to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do an excellent job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also familiar with different window types, and they may be aware of issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.
Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even window repairs can cause shards of glass to fly away and pose a risk to anyone within or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. It is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is thick and drys quickly.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner, the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then align it with the wood frame.
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 prevent the crack from growing and will also block out wind, water, bugs, and debris.
You can create an interim fix when you are unable get to the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame, but it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you may want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and can provide your home with a new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Clean the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other traces that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the proper tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll require either a brush or sponge, painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the brushes and paints you will be using in your kit. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and have a good amount of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.
If you are using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the space where you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.
You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean off any oil or grease that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin painting them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be eligible to make a claim with the dealer or window company who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced numerous issues with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
There are many ways to address the issue depending on whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you own an upgraded insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing 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 close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable however, it can be costly. It is typically used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed into place but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and debris.
To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, carefully pry out the glazing points -- small fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed ends. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however a knife provides a better, more precise application and creates a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of putty on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and get rid of any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it dries.