The 10 Most Scariest Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass window repair (telegra.ph)

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

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

Replacement

It's tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective, and can also assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's 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 repairing a broken window is to remove the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any shards remaining in the window. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.

Once the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.

If the manufacturer is responsible you should contact them and submit a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to be a perfect match.

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 stop it from spreading further. This trick is not foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave waste that are left behind, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows and could be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not see.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future issues.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been made and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It will take just about a minute however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess with a knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean the area properly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it with the frame made of wood.

To make a more durable option you can consider using a plastic covering. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also keep out water, wind, bugs, and debris.

If you're not able to get to the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the broken glass. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to fix it.

Repainting

If your windows with glass are old, you might consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and will give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats rather than a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.

Make sure you have the right tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need a sponge or brush as well as a painter's tamper, a ruler and toothpicks. It is recommended to have the paints and brushes that you will be using in your kit. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience because it may take a while for the paint to dry.

If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the space in which you work is well-ventilated. This will lower the risk 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 before painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.

If you have energy-efficient double glazed window repairs-pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to file a claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer that sold the windows. This is especially the case if you've experienced numerous issues with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

There are several ways to address the issue, regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window with cracks in the seal or if you have an insulated 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 fog or condensation is creating energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl v-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor, but they create very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, first employ a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass to the frame's recess with sharp, pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but a knife will provide a more precise application, and a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and a longer life.

Apply a thin layer of putty along the inside edge of frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the drawn line on the glass lines up with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it dries.