Notes

Glass Window Repair It's Not As Expensive As You Think
Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points as well as the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and accelerate the removal process.

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a more permanent solution is needed.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to take off the sash, or frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and pull out any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound and the glazing points that secure the window. Keep an eye on the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.

After you've removed the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you begin, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible you should contact them and submit an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be sprayed with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After letting the compound dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

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

Repair

Professional window contractors are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to handle different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind a mess that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They're also used to working with different window types and are able to spot problems that aren't obvious to the uninitiated homeowner.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack could cause shards of glass to fly away and put anyone at risk inside or around the house. It's important to determine what caused the crack, since this can prevent future problems.


Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is prepared apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is thick and will dry quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess with a putty knife. The next step is to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the wood frame.

To make a more durable option you can consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will keep the crack from growing and will also keep out wind, water bugs, debris, and water.

You can come up with an interim solution if you are unable to access the window in an efficient manner. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between frame and glass, but it will keep the crack in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new look. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to get rid of oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will help the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning to paint your glass windows, make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's adhesive, a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools like a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll be using to complete the project. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to fully dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.

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

Sealing

There are several ways to fix the problem, whether you have an old double-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you own an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, or fixing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed to the floor however they provide virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and other debris.

To fix a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide the most precise application and a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows, as it will have higher adhesion and long-lasting.

Apply a thin layer across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Going On this site on the glass to press the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it dries.

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