Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work from high above the ground, moving massive glass panes. 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 utility knife. A heat gun can help to soften and take off the old putty.
Replacement
It can be tempting to fix the glass of your window instead of replacing it if the glass breaks. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems in your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of broken glass to determine if it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is needed.
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 around and pull out any shards that remain within the window. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their location so they can be reinstalled.
After the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install the new glass. Make sure that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to be installed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window it could be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you should call them to make an claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After the compound is dry you can paint the frame to be a perfect match.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring a small arc with a razor blade that is just above the crack will help stop it from spreading further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers have the right tools and know how to work with different types of glass. They also understand the best practices for disposing of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave scraps that are left behind, which could hurt pets or family members. They're also used to working with different window types and 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 cracked glass. A small crack could cause glass shards to fly and could pose a danger to anyone inside or around the house. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you can prevent future problems.
Begin by creating an epoxy mixture that has two parts. They usually consist of composed of a 50/50 blend of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is done apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. It should take only a few minutes, but it's essential to work quickly since the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. You'll need to clean the cracks in the glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the resulting residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and match it to the frame made of wood.
Think about using a plastic lid for a more robust option. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trashbag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to reach the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant on the edge of the damaged glass. It won't fully seal the gap between glass and frame but it will help keep the break 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. Make sure the surface is clean prior to painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your hands onto the glass. In the end it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of a thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools in your arsenal if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. It is also recommended to have the brushes and paint you'll need for the project in your possession. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Be patient because it could take some time for the paint to fully dry.
If you're using solvent-based paints, you must make sure that the area where you work is well-ventilated. This will reduce the chance of breathing in toxic chemicals and allow the paint to dry faster. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface prior to painting. Clean Ruislip double glazing repair with soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to clean away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are dry before you start coating them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, then you might be in a position to make a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer 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 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, there are several methods to fix the issue. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit, but it may be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane or repairing it by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also seal up the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip or vinyl V-strip. Felt is cheap and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame but it doesn't provide a lot of protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and long-lasting however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas subjected to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed into place however they provide virtually no barrier between the threshold or sill and dust, air and debris.
To repair a broken window seal make use of a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that hold the glass to the frame's recess. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty. However, using a knife will give a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Select a putty specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin bead of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the cut line on the glass aligns with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure on the glass to compress the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound using a gloved hand and remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it dries.