Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen can maneuver large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety standards and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and can help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if this is a temporary fix or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.
The first step in repairing broken windows is to take off the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound and glazing points that hold the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.
After the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the right size for your 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. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact measurements. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible you should contact them and file an claim. After the new glass has been erected, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After drying the compound, you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste properly which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows and may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing cracked glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly and could pose a danger to anyone in or around the home. It's also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been prepared then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It will take just about a few minutes, but you must be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and drys quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't do this correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of your window and match it with the wood frame.
For a more durable solution think about 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.
You can make an interim solution if you are unable to access the window in time. Simply place a tiny amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely, but it will hold the broken piece in place until you can fix it.
Repainting
Repainting old glass windows is a great idea. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and will give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. Also you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools like a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project in your possession. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience, as it may take some time for the paint to completely dry.
It is also important to 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. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Use window repairs and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make 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 in a position to file a claim with the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had multiple problems with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
There are many ways to resolve the issue, whether you have an old double-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you own a newer insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary in cases where condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole in 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 with a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be glued, nailed or stapled to the frame, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to put in however it can be costly and is usually reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are cheap and can be put into place but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and debris.
To fix a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that hold the glass to the frame's recess with sharp edges and pointed ends. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge, then seal the bare wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give an easier application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows as it will be more adhesive and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of putty on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.