10 Things We All Hate About Glass Window Repair
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Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating massive glass panes. They work under extreme conditions and follow strict safety protocols.
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
It can be tempting to fix the glass on your windows instead of replacing it when the glass breaks. However, replacing a window is typically more cost-effective, and can also aid in preventing other issues that could affect your home's energy efficiency. Consider the kind of glass damaged to determine if it's a temporary fix or if a more permanent solution is needed.
To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash, and place it on the floor. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and remove any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to peel off the glazing compound and points that hold the glass in place. Keep the track of the components and their locations to ensure they are reinstalled.
After you've removed the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Before you do so make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.
Depending on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer, in which case you must contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry then you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring a small arc with the edge of a blade just over the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it will slow down the development of the crack until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors are equipped with the proper tools and know how to work with different kinds of glass. They also understand the best methods for disposing of waste, so they're less likely to leave scraps behind, which could potentially injure family members or pets. They are also experienced in working with different types of windows, and may be able spot problems that a novice home owner might not be able to notice.
Wear safety goggles and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. Even a tiny crack can cause shards of glass to fly and pose a risk to anyone within or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, as this can prevent future issues.
Begin by creating an epoxy mix that is two-part. It is usually 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is done put it in the glass crack and let it dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but it is important to be quick because the mixture is very thick and will dry very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can get rid of any excess with a putty knife. The next step is to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area correctly the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After cleaning the glass with a putty blade, use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and align it with the wood frame.
To make a more durable option you can consider using a plastic cover. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is ideal, however you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from expanding and will also keep out water, wind insects, water, and other debris.
You can make an interim solution when you are unable access the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely fill the gap between frame and glass but it will help keep the break in place while you repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might want to repaint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replace your windows and can give your home a fresh look. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges, as well as other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when working on glass to avoid the risk of transferring your own oils onto the surface of the window. Finally it is recommended to apply several thin coats of paint instead of one thick layer. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking 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 sponge or brush, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You should also have the paint and brushes you'll be using for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience as it can take a while for the paint to completely dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room in which you work is well-ventilated. This will decrease the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry faster. Wear a mask to protect yourself when using spray paints.
It is necessary to clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to you paint it. Clean the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water. You can then use rubbing alcohol to clean off any grease or oil that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are dry before you start coating them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to submit a claim to the window company or dealer that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly true if you have experienced multiple problems with broken glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
There are several ways to address the issue regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with a cracked seal, or if you own an IGU (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most expensive 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 existing IGU with a single pane or repair it by drilling a small hole into the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing, or stapled into place but it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable, but 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 sill or threshold and dust, air and debris.
To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the frame's recess. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood with a linseed oil based paint or clear wood sealer.
Traditional glazing putty is applied using a putty knife or caulking gun, but the knife is a better precision and precise application. It also creates a better seal. Choose a putty specifically for glass as it will be more durable and adhere better.
Apply a thin layer on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the cut line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty to form window and door repair a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it has dried.