Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under harsh weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is usually more cost-effective and
fitting can help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. Examine the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is needed.
The first step in repairing damaged windows is to take off the sash, also known as the frame and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and pull out any remaining shards. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep the track of these components and their locations so that they can be put back in place later.
Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Before doing this make sure that the opening in the frame is properly sized for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around each window pane.
If the manufacturer is accountable you should contact them and make a claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting an arc of a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it will slow down the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers have the right tools and know how to work with different kinds of glass. They also understand the best methods for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave waste behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows, and may be able to spot issues that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.
Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone who lives in or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, so that it can help prevent future problems.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is done, apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. This should only take some minutes but it's important to do it quickly because the mixture is very dense and quick drying.
After the epoxy has dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. You'll then need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't do it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth out the compound around the edge of your window and then match it to the frame made of wood.
If you want a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic covering. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
If you're unable to get to the
window doctor in a timely manner then you can apply silicone sealant to make an interim repair. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely however it will keep the fracture until you are able to fix it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might need to paint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and can give your home a new look. Make sure the window is clean prior to painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer, and keep your windows looking even and smooth.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools such as paper towels or a rag. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll be using to complete the project. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience because it could take a while for the paint to completely dry.
Also, ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry more quickly. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.
If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or
Fitting the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or damaged glass.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to address the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window that has a cracked seal, or if you have an upgraded IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.
You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or put in place, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is typically used in areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor however they provide very little or no protection between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and other debris.
To repair a damaged window seal, 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 to the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth.
