5 Laws That Anyone Working In Glass Window Repair Should Know
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work high above the ground, navigating huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun may help to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.
Replacement
It can be tempting to repair the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a permanent solution is needed.
To repair a broken window, remove the sash or frame and place it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's frame and pull out any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility blade to remove the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Keep track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.
Once the frame and sash have been removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the proper 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. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.
Based on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to match.
If your crack is more than an inch in length You can stop it from expanding by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This technique isn't 100% completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools to do the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other people to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They're also used to working with various types of windows and are able to spot problems that might not be apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly away and put anyone at risk in or around the home. It is also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it can help prevent future issues.
Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready, apply it to the glass crack and leave it to dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but you must be quick because the mixture is thick and will dry very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy using a putty blade. The next step is to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't do this correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the edge of your window and then match it to the frame of wood.
If you want a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is the best option, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will keep the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water, bugs, and debris.
You can make an interim solution in the event that you are unable to reach the window in an efficient manner. Simply run window repairs of the substance around the outside of the broken pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely however it will keep the fracture until you are able to repair it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to window replacement and can give your home a new look. Make sure that the surface is clean before painting. Clean the window using water and soap or rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
If you're planning to paint your glass windows, ensure that you have the appropriate tools at hand. You'll need a sponge or brush painter's tap as well as a ruler and toothpicks. You should have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to fully dry.
Also, ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. You should also make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you apply.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Make use of soap and warm water 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 the windows are completely dry before you begin coating them.
If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be eligible to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer that 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 damaged glass.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with a damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to fix the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with just one pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through 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 with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to install however it can be expensive and is typically reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed to the floor but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.
To fix a damaged window seal using a putty knife, you need to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, carefully pry out the glazing points, which are tiny fasteners that fix the glass into the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood. Wipe away any sanding sludge and then seal the unfinished 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, using a knife will give a more precise application, and a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, as it is more durable and stick better.
Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame so that the scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with fingers that are gloved and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped before it dries.