Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, navigating massive glass panes. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.
Replacement
If a window pane breaks, it can be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems with your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of glass that is broken to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a long-term solution is required.
The first step in repairing a broken window is to take off the sash, or frame, and lay it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any shards that remain in the window pane. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Make sure you keep an eye on the location of these components to make sure they can be put back in place later.
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 the proper size for your replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's points or clips to be positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and submit an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting a small arc with a razor blade just beyond the crack could help prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are trained to handle a variety of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind a mess that could harm family pets or members of the family. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows and could be able to spot problems that a novice home owner would not notice.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It is also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They usually consist of composed of a 50/50 blend of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. After the mix has been made, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should only take a couple of minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is extremely thick and dries very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner the debris could cause further damage to the 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 then align it with the frame made of wood.
You could consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.
If you're unable to reach the window quickly then you can apply silicone sealant to make a temporary repair. Simply apply a small amount of the material around the outside edge of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you are able to fix it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and can give your house a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, as well as other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will help the paint last longer and keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools nearby. You will need a sponge or brush, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll use for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to fully dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room in which you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. You should also make sure you have a protective mask for any spray paints you use.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be eligible to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
There are window repair near me to resolve the issue depending on regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal or if you own an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most expensive option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, but it may be necessary if condensation or fog cause energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single pane or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and then filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also fill in the gap between windows and a threshold or sill with a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable however, it can be costly. It is generally reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To repair a broken window seal using a putty knife, you need to scrape off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass into the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding traces, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, using a knife allows for a more efficient, more precise application and will provide a better seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass as it will be more durable and stick better.
Apply a thin layer of glue on the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the cut line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to press the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips before it dries.