10 Misconceptions Your Boss Has About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work from high off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
While wearing protective clothing remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old putty and speed up removal.
Replacement
It can be tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if panes break. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems that could affect 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 will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.
The first step in repairing damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, gently move around and pull out any remaining shards in the window pane. Utilize a utility knife to remove the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.
After the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also 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 make an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. Once upvc window repair is dry you can paint the frame to the color of the.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade just beyond the crack could help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete the job correctly. They also understand the best methods for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows, and may be able to spot issues that a novice home owner might not be able to notice.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting repair work on cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and pose a risk to anyone inside or around the house. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you will help prevent any future problems.
Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They usually consist of made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. After the mixture is prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but you must work quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.
Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area properly, the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the wood frame.
If you want a more durable solution think about using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trash bag. This will stop the crack from expanding and will also block out water, wind, bugs, and debris.
If you're unable to reach the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass however it will keep the crack in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace your windows and can give your home a fresh look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Wash the window with water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges as well as other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. Also you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will make the paint last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.
Make sure you have the proper tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need either a brush or sponge, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use in your kit. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience since it may take a while for the paint to dry.
It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints that you use.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any grease or oil that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.
If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation even though the windows are covered by warranty.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it may be required in situations where fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and simple to install, but it can be costly and is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To fix a cracked window seal first, use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass in the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however the knife is a better, more precise application and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it is more durable and adhere better.
Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the drawn line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or spills that are not properly wiped away before it is dry.