10 Things We Love About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering huge panes of glass. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.

Wearing protective clothing, take off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and speed up removal.

Replacement

When a window's pane breaks, it can be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is usually more cost-effective, and can also assist in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the kind of glass that is broken to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.

The first step in fixing damaged windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame, and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle and pull out any shards that remain in the window pane. Use a utility blade to remove the glazing compound and the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and where they are so that they can be put back in place.

After removing the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.

Depending on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you need to contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.

If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This trick won't be infallible, but it will slow the development of the crack down to a manageable level until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They also understand nearby the best methods for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows and are capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. A small crack can cause shards to fly, which could pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.

Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are typically a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It should only take about a few minutes, but you must be quick because the mixture is thick and dries very quickly.

Once the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. You'll need to scrub the cracked glass. If you don't do this correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the frame of wood.

For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will prevent the crack from expanding, and will also keep out water, wind bugs, debris, and water.

You can make an interim fix if you are unable to reach the window in an efficient manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edges of the broken glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely, but it will hold the fracture until you can repair it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a fresh new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other residues that could hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and will 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'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and a few other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have a good amount of patience as it can take a while for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paints, you must also ensure that the space where you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry quicker. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease remnants that may hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you begin painting them.

If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit a claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer who sold them. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and have experienced numerous problems with condensation or broken glass.

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 to address the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane, or fixing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed by gluing, nailing, or stapled into place but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and simple to install however, it can be expensive and is generally used for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed to the floor however they provide very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and air, dust, and debris.

To repair a damaged window seal, first use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take out the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass into the recess of the frame. After getting rid of the glazing points clean out the grooves and sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust and then seal the unfinished wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.

A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, however the use of a knife allows for a more precise application, and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.

Apply a small amount the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the upvc window repairs near me into the frame in a way that the scribed line on the glass is aligned with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it dries.