10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares About Glass Window Repair
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, moving huge panes of glass. They follow strict safety protocols and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften the old glue and speed up removal.
Replacement
If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is cheaper to replace a window, and it can also help you prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. Consider the kind of glass damaged to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is required.
The first step in repairing damaged windows is to remove the frame, or sash and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.
Once the frame and sash are removed then you can begin the process of preparing to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, you can purchase double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you need to contact them to make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be bedded in with a thin coating of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound is dry you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the development of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools to do the job correctly. They also know the best methods for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows and could be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not see.
Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards of glass to fly away, posing a danger to anyone who lives in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, so that you can prevent future problems.
Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. They usually consist of a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It will take just some minutes, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast drying.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. Once the glass is cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and to match it to the frame made of wood.
Consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
You can make an interim fix when you are unable reach the window in time. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the edge of the broken glass. It won't fully seal the gap between frame and glass, but it will keep the break in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and it can give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If window repairs near me on repainting your glass windows, make sure you have the proper tools at hand. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience since it may take awhile for the paint to dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room where you work is adequately ventilated. This will decrease the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry quicker. You should also make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints that you use.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that could interfere with the paint's adhesion. Be sure that the windows are completely dried 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 company or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced numerous issues with broken glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are many ways to fix the problem depending on regardless of whether you have an older double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you have an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging solution.
You can also close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to install however it is costly and is typically used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be fixed to the floor, but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.
To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the frame's recess. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty is applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and creates a better seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of glue on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that was applied incorrectly or spills that are not properly wiped away before it is dry.