Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, remove all glaze putty and glazing points with a utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and eliminate the old putty.
Replacement
If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the kind of glass damaged to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is needed.
To fix a broken window, take off the sash or frame and lay it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, carefully wiggle and pull out any remaining shards in the window. Then, use window repairs to peel off the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in place. Keep track of the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.
Once the frame and sash have been removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is sized for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses made to these exact measurements. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If the crack is greater than an inch, you can prevent it from spreading by scoring an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They're also used to working with different types of windows, and they may be capable of identifying issues that aren't obvious to a homeowner who isn't experienced.
Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, make sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. They are typically 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It should take only about a minute but it's important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the debris could cause further damage to the glass. Once the glass is cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then align it with the frame made of wood.
Think about using a plastic lid for a more durable option. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and insects out.
You can create an interim solution if you are unable to reach the window in an efficient manner. Simply place a tiny amount of the substance around the outside edge of the broken window. It won't completely fill the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows and it can give your home a fresh new look. Make sure the window 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 hands onto the surface. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
Make sure you have the proper tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the brushes and paints you will be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience, as it may take a while for the paint to completely dry.
You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. It is also important to ensure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you use.
It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be in a position to submit a claim to the window company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've had several issues with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
There are many ways to address the issue, regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window with a cracked seal, or if you own a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit but it may be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is typically used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place, but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and other debris.
To repair a broken window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that hold the glass into the frame's recess with sharp and pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty is applied using either a putty knife or a caulking gun, however a knife provides a better application that is more precise and creates a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, since it will be more durable and will adhere better.
Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.