How To Outsmart Your Boss With Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair

Professional window repairmen are able to move large panes of tempered glass from a height higher than the ground. They adhere to strict safety guidelines and are often working in harsh 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

It is tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help you prevent other problems in the efficiency of your home. It is also important to consider the kind of glass that is damaged to determine if it is a temporary fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.

The first step in fixing broken windows is to remove the sash, also known as the frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window pane and pull out any remaining fragments. Then, use a utility knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in the position. Keep the track of the components and their locations so that they can be put back in place.

After you have removed the frame and sash you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction take measurements in both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed 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 should call the company to file an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be covered with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After the compound is dry you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.

If the crack is greater than an inch in length you can stop it from expanding by slicing a small arc just beyond the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.

Repair

Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of waste, and are less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with various types of windows and could be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner would not notice.

Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to beginning repair work on cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly around and pose a risk to anyone in or around the home. It's also crucial to figure out what caused the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future problems.

Start by making an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They are usually composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made, apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes, but it's essential to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.

Once the epoxy is dried, you can get rid of any excess with a knife. After that, you'll need clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't do it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame made of wood.

For a more durable solution you can consider using a plastic covering. A trash bag that is heavy-duty or tarp is ideal, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and insects out.

You can create an interim solution when you are unable reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between the frame and glass but it will help keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.

Repainting

Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the glass. Finally, you should apply several thin coats of paint instead of a single thick layer. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.

Make sure you have the proper tools available in case you want to paint glass windows. You'll require a sponge or brush painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll be using for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have patience, as it may take a while for the paint to completely dry.

You should also make sure the space you're working is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the chance of breathing in harmful chemicals and allow the paint to dry more quickly. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.

For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to clean off any oil or grease that could hinder adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.

If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be eligible to file a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've experienced multiple issues with condensation or broken glass.

Sealing

There are several ways to resolve the issue regardless of regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has cracks in the seal, or if you own an upgraded IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or fixing the existing IGU by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it up with an anti-fogging solution.

You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold with a felt strip, vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame but it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to put in however, it is costly and is typically reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are easy to nail to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer little or no protection between the threshold and the air.

To repair a damaged upvc window repair seal first, you must use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess using sharp edges and Glass Window Repair pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding debris and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.

Traditional glazing putty can be applied using a putty knife or caulking gun, however using a knife allows for a more efficient precision and precise application. It also provides a stronger seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass, as it will last longer and stick better.

Apply a thin bead of the putty on the inside edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty and glass to form an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any caulk that is applied incorrectly or drips that have escaped prior to drying.