15 Gifts For The Glass Window Repair Lover In Your Life
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They work in extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun will help to soften and eliminate the old putty.
Replacement
When a window's pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass rather than replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window, and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect the efficiency of your home. Examine the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is needed.
The first step in repairing damaged windows is to remove the sash, or frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that hold the glass in the position. Be sure to keep the track of these components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.
After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Measure both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact them to file an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be sprayed with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If your crack is more than an inch, you can prevent it from expanding by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack down to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle various kinds of glass and have the tools to do an excellent job. They also know the best methods for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs behind, which could potentially hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different kinds of windows, and may be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not see.
Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly away and pose a risk to anyone inside or around the house. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, as this could prevent future issues.
Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and must be mixed quickly. Once window repairs near me is ready apply it to the crack in the glass and let it dry. It should take only a couple of minutes, but you must be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy using a putty blade. You'll then need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't do this properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth out the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame made of wood.
Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from expanding and will also block out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.
You can create an interim fix if you are unable to access the window in a timely manner. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside edge of the broken window. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the break in place while you fix it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
Make sure you have the proper tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You will need brushes or sponges, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll be using in your kit. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and have plenty of patience as it can take some time for the paint to dry.
Also, ensure that the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will lower the risk of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water. Then, use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that could affect the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be eligible to file a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass even though the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you own a newer IGU (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.
You can also seal up the gap between windows and a threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are able to be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To repair a cracked window seal, first use a putty blade to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the frame's recess. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves and sand down the wood. Clean any sanding dust, then seal the bare wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, a knife will provide a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of glue across the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any mistakenly applied caulk or spills that are not properly wiped away before it dries.