Glass Window Repair: What's No One Has Discussed
Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen can maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a height above the ground. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
Wearing protective clothing, remove the metal glazing points and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun will help to soften and eliminate the old putty.
Replacement
It's tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it can also help you to avoid other issues in the efficiency of your home. Take a look at the type of glass that is broken to determine whether it's a temporary fix or if a more permanent solution is required.
The first step to repair a broken window is to take off the sash, also known as the frame and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and then remove any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that hold the window in place. Keep an eye on the components and their locations so they can be reinstalled.
After removing the frame and sash you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is the proper size for your replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. 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 positioned every 6 inches around the window pane.
Based on the window's warranty, this may be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact the company to file an claim. Once the new glass is installed, it should be bedded in with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the growth of the crack to a manageable amount until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to deal with a variety of glass types, and they have the tools to do the job correctly. They also know the best ways to dispose of waste, so they're less likely to leave crumbs behind, which could potentially cause harm to pets or family members. They're also accustomed to working with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to a homeowner who isn't experienced.
Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin the process of repairing cracked glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone who lives in or around the home. It is crucial to determine the cause of the crack, so that you could prevent future issues.
Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is prepared, apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. It will take just a couple of minutes, but you must be quick because the mixture is thick and drys very quickly.
Once the epoxy has dried, you can remove excess epoxy with a putty blade. The next step is to clean the cracks in the glass. If you do not clean the area correctly, the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. After the glass has been cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and align it with the frame of wood.
Consider using a plastic cover to make a more durable choice. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
If you're not able to get to the window in a timely manner, you can use silicone sealant to create an interim repair. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant around the edge of the broken glass. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass, but it will keep the crack in place while you repair it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replace windows and give your house a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Clean the window using soap and water or use ruby alcohol to eliminate oil smudges and other traces which can hinder the paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will make the paint last longer and make your windows appear smooth and even.
Make sure you have the proper tools on hand if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need brushes or sponges painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. It is also recommended to have the paint and brushes you'll use for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience as it can take some time for the paint to fully dry.
It is also important to ensure that the area you're working in is ventilated when you're using solvent-based paint. This will reduce the risk of inhaling harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you use.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then apply rubbing alcohol to wash off any oil or grease that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you begin to paint them.
If you have energy efficient double pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to submit a claim for repair or replacement with the window manufacturer or the dealer who sold the windows. This is especially true if your windows are still under warranty and you've experienced numerous problems with condensation or damaged glass.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to fix the problem regardless of whether you have an old double-pane window that has a cracked seal, or if you have an upgraded insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. It is the most expensive option to replace the insulation unit and the frame. However, window repairs near me might be necessary in cases where fog or condensation is causing energy losses. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit, and then filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close 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 doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable, but can be expensive. It is usually used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be fixed into place, but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air, and other debris.
To repair a damaged window seal, use a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection take care to remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass into the frame's recess using sharp and pointed edges. After taking out the glazing points, clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust and then seal the unfinished wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty is applied using the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, but the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also will provide a better seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass, as it will last longer and will adhere better.
Apply a thin layer of putty on the inside of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into frame in a way that the scribed line on glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved finger and then wipe off any caulk that was applied incorrectly or errant drips before it is dry.