Glass Window Repair

Professional upvc window repairs repairmen are able to move large glass panes from a height higher than the ground. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.

While wearing protective clothing remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.

Replacement

When a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing windows is typically more cost-effective and may aid in preventing other issues with your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the type of glass that is damaged to determine if it is temporary or if you'll require a more permanent solution.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the sash, or frame and lay it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and then remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility knife to cut off the glazing compound and the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and where they are so they can be reinstalled.

After the frame and sash are removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Make sure you check the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave space for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Then, purchase double-strength glass made to these exact measurements. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.

Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call the company to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it should be bedded in with a thin coating of glazier's compound. Once the compound is dry, you can paint the frame to match.

If your crack is more than an inch you can stop it from spreading by scoring an arc that is just a little beyond the crack. This method isn't foolproof, however it can slow the development of the crack until you are able to take permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers have the proper tools and know how to work with various types of glass. They also know the best methods for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also used to working with various types of windows and repairs are aware of issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning the process of repairing damaged glass. Even a small break can cause shards of glass to fly away, posing a danger to anyone in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, as this will help prevent any future issues.

Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. They are typically 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It will take just about a minute, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is very thick and quick drying.

After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a putty blade. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean the area properly, the debris could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the upvc window repair, and then match it to the frame of wood.

Think about using a plastic lid 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 get to the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply run a bead of the stuff around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a great idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and it can give your home a fresh new look. Before painting, ensure that the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges and 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 glass. In the end you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.

If you're planning on repainting your glass windows, be sure you have all the right tools nearby. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape toothpicks, a ruler and other tools such as paper towels or a rag. You should have the paints and brushes that you'll be using on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and have plenty of patience since it may take awhile for the paint to dry.

If you're using solvent-based paint, you should make sure that the area where you work is well ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry quicker. You should also make sure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints that you use.

For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to scrub off any oil or grease that could hinder paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin painting them.

If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to file a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly relevant if you've had several issues with broken glass or condensation and the windows are covered by warranty.

Sealing

Whether you have old double-pane windows with damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options for fixing the problem. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit but it may be required if fog or condensation is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.

You can also seal the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt is affordable and can be fixed with glue, nailed or stapled to the frame, but it does not provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and simple to install, but it is costly and is generally reserved for areas exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be nailed into place but they create little to no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.

To repair a damaged window seal first, employ a putty knife to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- small fasteners that fix the glass in the frame's recess, with sharp edges and pointed edges. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.

Traditional glazing putty is applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun. However, the knife is a better application that is more precise and provides a stronger seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin layer along the inside edge of frame where it joins 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 to compress the putty into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it has dried.