Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men can maneuver large glass panes from a high point above the ground. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety guidelines.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can to soften the old putty and accelerate the removal process.
Replacement
It's tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. Examine the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.
To fix a broken window, take off the frame or sash and lay it flat on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and remove any remaining fragments. Use a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep track of the components and where they are so they can be reinstalled.
After you've removed the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before you begin ensure that the opening in the frame is sized for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible, you can call them and make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be bedded in with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After drying the compound and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting an arc of the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This technique isn't 100% 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 contractors are trained to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools to do a proper job. They are able to dispose of waste in a safe manner which means they are less likely than others to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They are also experienced in working with various types of windows, and may be able spot problems that an inexperienced home owner would not notice.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small crack can cause shards of glass to fly and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It's also crucial to determine the cause of the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually a 50/50 mix of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. After the mix has been made then apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only a couple of minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is very thick and drys quickly.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess with a putty knife. You'll need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth out the compound around the window's edge and then match it to the wood frame.
You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
You can create a temporary fix if you are unable to get to the window in time. Simply apply a small amount of the stuff around the outside of the broken window. It won't fully seal the gap between frame and glass, but it will keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing windows, and it can give your home a new look. Make sure the surface is clean before painting. Clean the window with soap and water or use rubbing alcohol to remove oil smudges and other traces that can prevent the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves when working on glass to prevent the transfer of 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 to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have the proper tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools like paper towels or a rag. You should have the paints and brushes that you'll use on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience because it could take some time for the paint to completely dry.
It is also important to ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you use.
You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that could hinder adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin coating them.
If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to file claims for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've had multiple 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, there are several methods to fix the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame however it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to install, but it is costly and is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put to the floor however they provide very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.
To repair a damaged window seal, first use a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves remove the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass into the recess of the frame. After removing the glazing points, remove 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 the traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide the most precise application and a more secure seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows as it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of glue along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with an ungloved finger, and wipe away any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips prior to drying.