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

Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating huge panes of glass. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under extreme weather conditions.


While wearing protective clothing remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

If a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective and may assist in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is temporary or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.

The first step in repairing damaged windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame and place it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any remaining shards within the window. Then, use a utility knife to remove the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in the position. Make sure you keep an eye on the location of these components to make sure they can be replaced later.

After removing the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible then you should call them and file a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be bedded in with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After drying the compound and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If your crack is more than an inch in length you can stop it from spreading by slicing an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. 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 contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps which could cause harm to family members or pets. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows and could be able to spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not see.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly around and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It's also important to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. After the mixture is prepared, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should only take some minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and dries quickly.

After the epoxy has dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it to the frame of wood.

To make a more durable option, consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

If you're unable to get to the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the break in place while you fix it.

Repainting

If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and can give your home a fresh look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other residues which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the proper tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, 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. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have plenty of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the space where you work is well-ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing into toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you use.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, double glazing window repairs on any grease or oil residues 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, then you might be able to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are many ways to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you own an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by with a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are inexpensive. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To fix 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 hold the glass into the frame's recess, with sharp and pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue and then seal the unfinished wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however the use of a knife allows for the most precise application and a stronger seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it will be more adhesive and durability.

Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped prior to drying.

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