Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men work from high above the ground, navigating huge panes of glass. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and are often working in extreme weather conditions.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can to soften and eliminate the old putty.
Replacement
When a window's pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. It is more cost-effective to replace a window, and it can also help to avoid other issues in your home's efficiency. Examine the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a more permanent solution is needed.
The first step to repair broken windows is to take off the frame, or sash and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's frame and remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to remove the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and where they are to ensure they are reinstalled.
Once the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, and then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement to give room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise 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, this may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact the company to file a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After letting the compound dry and dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't foolproof, but it will slow down the development of the crack until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to deal with a variety of glass and have the tools to do the job correctly. They are able to dispose of waste properly, so they are less likely than others to leave behind pieces of glass that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows and could be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.
Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly around and put anyone at risk within or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, since this can prevent future issues.
Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is prepared put it in the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It should take only some minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is thick and dries very quickly.
Once the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of excess epoxy using a putty blade. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't do it properly, the residue can cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and match it to the frame made of wood.
Consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
If you're unable to reach the window in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Apply a small amount silicone sealant around the edge of the damaged glass. It won't 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 replace your windows and will provide your home with a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to get rid of oil smudges, and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. In the end, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, make sure you have all the right tools at hand. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools like paper towels or a rag. It is recommended to have the brushes and paints you'll use on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and be prepared with plenty of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.
If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. Use a protective mask 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, use rubbing 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 painting them.
If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it may be possible to submit claims for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or the dealer who sold them. This is especially true if the 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 a cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to address the issue. It is the most expensive option to replace both the IGU that is insulated as well as the frame. However, it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. 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 fill in the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and durable however it can be expensive. It is usually reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail in place and are cheap. However, they provide little or no protection between the threshold and the air.
To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding traces and then seal the unfinished wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however a knife provides a better precision and precise application. It also provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it will last longer and stick better.
Apply a thin layer across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty into a solid seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved hand and remove any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it dries.