Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men work up above the ground, navigating massive glass panes. They work in extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the metal glazing points and the glazing putty by using a utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and take off the old putty.
Replacement
It is tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help prevent other problems in your home's efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that is damaged to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in a more permanent solution.
The first step in repairing a broken window is to remove the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. While wearing eye protection, gently move the frame and remove any shards that remain within the window. Then, use a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that help to hold the glass in the position. Keep an eye on the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.
After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is the right size for your replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy 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 positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible for this then you should call them and make an claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer glaziers compound. After the compound is dry it is possible to paint the frame to match.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack could help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable level until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete an excellent job. They know how to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They are also familiar with working with different types of windows, and may be able to spot issues that a novice home owner would not notice.
Before you begin the process of repairing cracked window glass, ensure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a tiny crack can cause glass shards to fly around and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It's also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, since it could help avoid future problems.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They are usually a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. After the mixture is prepared and applied, simply apply it to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes however it is important to get it done quickly as the mixture is very thick and quick drying.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess with a 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. Once the glass is cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it with the wood frame.
For a more durable solution think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
You can make a temporary fix when you are unable reach the window in time. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass however it will keep the broken piece in place while you repair it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a cost-effective alternative to replace your windows and can give your house a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your hands onto the surface. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the right tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll use for the project on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and be prepared with plenty of patience since it may take awhile for the paint to dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of breathing into harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Be sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be eligible to file a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows that have a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging, there are several methods to address the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary if fog or condensation is creating energy losses. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repair it by drilling a small hole through 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 using a felt strip, or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but 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 usually reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To repair a cracked window seal first, you must employ a putty knife to scrape off the caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess, with sharp and pointed ends. After taking out the glazing points, remove the grooves, then sand the wood. Wipe off any sanding debris and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however the use of a knife allows for an easier application and a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, as it will have higher adhesion and durability.
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 scribed line on glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it has dried.