5 Common Myths About Glass Window Repair You Should Avoid

click for more work high off the ground, maneuvering massive glass panes. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun may help to soften the old putty and speed up removal.
Replacement
It is tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing related is usually more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the kind of glass that is broken to determine if this is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.
The first step to repair damaged windows is to remove the sash, or frame and lay it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any shards that remain within the window. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Be sure to keep track of the components and their locations so that they can be replaced later.
After removing the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you should call the company to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be sprayed with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. Once the compound has dried, you can paint the frame to match.
If the crack is greater than an inch, you can prevent it from expanding by scoring an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This method isn't infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They know how to dispose of waste safely, so they are less likely than others to leave behind scraps that could harm family pets or members of the family. They're also familiar with different types of windows and are capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.
Before you begin the process of repairing damaged window glass, make sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, so that it could help avoid future issues.
Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They typically are a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. This should only take some minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.
After the epoxy has 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 do it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the frame made of wood.
For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic covering. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will keep the crack from expanding and will also keep out wind, water, bugs, and debris.
You can create an interim fix in the event that you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Simply place a tiny amount of the material around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.
Repainting
Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new look. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other traces which can hinder the paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply several thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.
If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a sponge or brush painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the brushes and paints you will be using in your kit. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to completely dry.
If you are using solvent-based paints, you must make sure that the area in which you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the chance of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be in a position to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
There are several ways to fix the problem depending on whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you have a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations where fog or condensation is creating energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging product.
You can also fill in the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing, or stapled into place however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and durable, but can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed into place but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.
To repair a cracked window seal first, you must use a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame's recess using sharp, pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves and sand down the wood. Wipe off any sanding traces Then, seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied with either a putty knife or a caulking gun, however the knife is a better application that is more precise and will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, since it will have higher adhesion 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 in a way that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it dries.