Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men work up off the ground, maneuvering huge glass panes. They work in extreme weather conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points as well as all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften the old putty and speed up removal.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if a pane breaks. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Take a look at the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.
To repair a broken window, remove the sash or frame and place it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and then remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.
After the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install the new glass. Before doing this, make sure that the opening in the frame is size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these precise dimensions. It is a good idea also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around each window pane.
Based on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you need to contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been erected it is crucial to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, 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 expanding by slicing a small arc just beyond the crack. This trick is not foolproof however it can slow the development of the crack until you are able to take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle various kinds of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than others to leave behind a mess which could cause harm to family pets or members of the family. They're also familiar with different window types and are able to spot problems that aren't obvious to the uninitiated homeowner.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly, posing a danger to anyone living in or around the home. It's important to determine what caused the crack, so that you could prevent future problems.
Start by making an epoxy mix that is two-part. They are usually composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It will take just a couple of minutes, but it is important to work quickly because the mixture is very thick and drys very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off any excess with a putty knife. You'll need to clean around the cracked glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Make use of a putty knife to smooth the compound around the edge of your window and match it to the wood frame.
To make a more durable option think about using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
If you're unable to get to the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edges of the broken glass. It won't seal the gap between the frame and the glass completely however it will keep the fracture until you can fix it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you might need to paint them. This is an affordable alternative to replace your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Clean the window with water and soap or ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges as well as other residues that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats rather than a single thick one. This will help the paint last longer and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.
If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have the appropriate tools at hand. You'll require a sponge or brush, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You'll need the paints and brushes that you'll be using in your kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient as it can take some time for the paint to completely dry.
You should also make sure the area you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. Then, apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that could hinder paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry prior to coating them.
If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to make a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly the case if you've experienced numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are many ways to fix the problem depending on regardless of whether you have an older double-pane glass with a cracked seal, or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace both the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy losses. 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 close the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed with glue, nailed, or stapled into place however it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and simple to install, but it can be expensive and is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.
To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess using sharp, pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe away any sanding sludge and then seal the unfinished wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but the use of a knife allows for a more precise application, and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and durability.
Apply a small amount the putty to the inside edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the drawn line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using fingers that are gloved, and wipe away any caulk that was applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped prior to drying.