Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men are able to move large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and often work under extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can to soften and take off the old putty.
Replacement
It is tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll need to invest in an alternative that is more durable.
The first step in repairing damaged windows is to remove the frame, or sash and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that help to hold the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations so they can be reinstalled.
Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.
Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to make an claim. After the new glass has been put in place it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.
If your crack is longer than an inch in length, you can prevent it from spreading by cutting a small arc just beyond the crack. This trick is not foolproof however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They are able to dispose of waste safely and are therefore less likely than other contractors to leave behind a mess that could inflict harm on family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows and may be capable of identifying issues that aren't apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack can cause shards of glass to fly away, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, since this could prevent future problems.
Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They usually consist of composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It should only take some minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is thick and drys quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy using a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean the area properly, the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. Use a putty blade smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and then match it to the frame made of wood.
Think about using a plastic lid for a more robust option. 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 stop the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
You can come up with a temporary fix in the event that you are unable to access the window in an efficient manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame, but it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you may need to paint them. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Wash the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to get rid of oil smudges and other traces which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats instead of just one large coat. This will help the paint last longer, and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.
Make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll require either a brush or sponge painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to fully dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well-ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.
It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water before you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water, then use rubbing alcohol to scrub away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.
If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer that sold them. This is especially true if you have experienced numerous issues with broken glass or condensation even though the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are many ways to address the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window with cracks in the seal, or if you own a newer insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary in cases where condensation or fog is causing energy losses. 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 with an anti-fogging agent.
You can also close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they offer very little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To repair a damaged window seal, first 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 pin the glass to the frame's recess. After getting rid of the glazing points clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding traces, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give the most precise application and a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and durability.
Apply a small amount the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the scribed line on glass aligns with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away prior to drying.