Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, moving massive glass panes. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.
Replacement
If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also assist in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. It is also important to consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if this is temporary or if you will require an option that is more permanent.
To repair a broken window, remove the frame or sash, and place it on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and then remove any remaining shards. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep an eye on the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.
After removing the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is sized 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, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you need to contact them to make a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it must be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to be a perfect match.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This trick won't be foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers are equipped with the appropriate tools and know how to handle various types of glass. They also know the best practices for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps in the trash, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They're also familiar with different types of windows and are capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to the uninitiated homeowner.
Before beginning the process of repairing cracked window glass, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future issues.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture has been prepared, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only 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 get rid of any excess with a knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't clean the area in a proper manner, the leftovers could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it with the wood frame.
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 prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to reach the window in an efficient manner. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside edge of the broken pane. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the break in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the glass surface. In the end, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush or sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project in your possession. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, make sure that the area in which you work is adequately ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry quicker. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.
If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be in a position to file a claim with the window company or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation even though the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging and fogging, there are a variety of options for fixing the problem. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulation unit and the frame. However, it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the existing IGU by drilling a hole through the bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging product.
You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is generally used in areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and air.
To repair a cracked window seal first, employ a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that fix the glass in the frame's recess using sharp and pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty. However, the use of a knife allows for the most precise application and a stronger seal. Choose window repair near me for glass, as it is more durable and adhere better.
Apply a small amount the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty and create an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with an ungloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it is dry.