5 Myths About Glass Window Repair That You Should Avoid
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work high off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and often work under harsh weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun may help soften the old putty and speed up removal.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when panes break. It is more cost-effective to replace a window, and it will also help prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a more permanent solution is required.
To fix a broken window, you must remove the sash or frame and place it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that keep the glass in the position. Keep the track of the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.
After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for your replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be sprayed with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the rest of the window frame.
If your crack is longer than an inch you can stop it from spreading by scoring the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the development of the crack down to a manageable size until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different kinds of glass. They also understand the best methods for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave waste behind, which could potentially injure family members or pets. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows, and may be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.
Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It's also important to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Begin by creating a two-part epoxy mixture. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is extremely thick and will dry quickly.
After Gillingham double glazing has dried, you can get rid of any excess using a putty knife. You'll need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window, and then match it to 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 sturdy trashbag. This will stop the crack from expanding and will also keep out wind, water insects, water, and other debris.
You can come up with a temporary fix when you are unable access the window in time. Simply place a tiny amount of the substance around the outside of the damaged pane. It won't close the gap between the frame and the glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you can fix it.
Repainting
Repainting old glass windows is a good idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to window replacement and will give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to wash away oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the window's surface. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If you're planning to paint your glass windows, be sure you have the proper tools at hand. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools, such as paper towels or a rag. You should have the brushes and paints you'll use in your kit. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Have patience as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.
You should also make sure the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry faster. It is also important to ensure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you apply.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin coating them.
If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to make an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
If you have double-pane windows with a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to address the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be required in situations 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 its bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging agent.
You can also fill in the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and easy to put in however, it can be costly and is usually reserved for areas exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place however they provide little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and other debris.
To repair a cracked window seal, first employ a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves remove the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass in the frame's recess. After getting rid of the glazing points clean the grooves, then sand the wood. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide an easier application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass, since it will last longer and will adhere better.
Apply a small amount of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into an elongated 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 is dry.