Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and frequently work in extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun can soften the old glue and speed up removal.
Replacement
It is tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it when panes break. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective and may help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that's damaged to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will need to invest in an option that is more permanent.
The first step in fixing broken windows is to take off the sash, also known as the frame and lay it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and then remove any remaining fragments. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound, and the glazing points that secure the window. Make sure you keep an eye on the components and their locations to make sure they can be replaced later.
Once the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new 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 room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is recommended to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around each window pane.
Depending on the window's warranty the window may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact them to make a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After the compound has dried it is possible to paint the frame to the color of the.
If the crack is greater than an inch, you can prevent it from spreading by cutting a small arc just beyond the crack. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are trained to handle a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do a proper job. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave crumbs in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows, and may be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner might not see.
Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly away and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It is crucial to determine the cause of the crack, so that you will help prevent any future issues.
Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. These are usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and they must be quickly mixed. When the mixture is ready, apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It should only take some minutes, but it is important to be quick as the mixture is thick and dries quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. The next step is to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean the area properly the debris could cause further damage to your glass. After cleaning the glass, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and match it to the frame made of wood.
For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic covering. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.
If you're unable to reach the window fast enough, you can use silicone sealant to create a temporary repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant on the edges of the broken glass. It won't close the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the fracture until you can fix it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window with soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other traces which can hinder the paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring 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 will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, make sure you have the proper tools in your arsenal. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape, toothpicks, a ruler as well as a few other tools like paper towels or a rag. You should have the paints and brushes that you will be using on hand. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's directions and be prepared with plenty of patience because it may take some time for the paint to dry.
It is also important to ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. Also, make sure you have a protective mask for any spray paints that you use.
You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Make use of soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.
If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the company that makes the windows or dealer that sold the windows. This is particularly relevant if you've had multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to address the issue, regardless of whether you have an older double-pane glass with cracks in the seal, or if you own a newer insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulated unit as well as the frame. However, it might be necessary if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other alternatives include replacing the current IGU with a single-pane, or repairing 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 threshold or sill using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued, or nailed into place but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting, but can be expensive. It is typically reserved for areas that are subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be put into place however they provide little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and debris.
To repair a damaged window seal first, you must use a putty knife to take off the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection remove the glazing point, which are small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris, then seal the bare 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 a knife will provide an easier application and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it has better adhesion and durability.
Apply a small amount of the putty to the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass in order to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using an ungloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or errant drips before it is dry.