Professional window repairmen can maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and frequently work in harsh weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, take off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and eliminate the old putty.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective and may aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is needed.
The first step in fixing damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and then remove any remaining fragments. Use a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Make sure you keep track of these components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.
After removing the frame and sash you can start preparing to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the right size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. 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.
Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound is dry you can paint the frame to the color of the.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, but it will slow down the growth of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do an excellent job. They also understand the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also familiar with different window types and may be able to spot problems that aren't obvious to a homeowner who isn't experienced.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future issues.
Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready put it in the glass crack and allow it to dry. It will take just some minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is thick and drys quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. You'll need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to your glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the wood frame.
Think about using a plastic lid for a more robust option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
You can make a temporary fix when you are unable get to the window in time. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edge of the damaged glass. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you can fix it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean prior to painting. Wash the window with water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove 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 instead of just one large coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools like a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll be using for the project in your possession. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient as it can take a while for the paint to completely dry.
Also, ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will help to reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous problems with condensation or damaged glass.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows that have a broken seal or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.
You can also close the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill by using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place however it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and simple to install however, it can be costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place but they create virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and debris.
To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass to the frame's recess with sharp and pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding traces 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, but using a knife will give an easier application and a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, since it will be more durable and stick better.
Apply a thin layer along the inside edge of frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to press the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and then wipe off any mistakenly applied caulk or errant drips prior to drying.
