Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a major impact on the efficiency of your home. This is particularly important for older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to change the glazing points by putting the window in place, but it is easier and quicker if you remove the frame and glass. It is a good idea to replace the seals made of rubber.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but can also let valuable sunlight and heat escape your home. It's usually possible to fix a broken window without the need for full replacement.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. You can also use duct tape or painter's taps to create an "X" on the glass that you intend to remove. This will stop any broken glass from falling on you as you work.
If you've noticed a small crack in the glass of your window, cover it with tape to keep out the elements like wind, water and insects. One strip of tape is enough to cover any cracks that are superficial, but if you're worried about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, use a heavier-duty plastic cover, such as a tarp or a trash bag, to hold the glass in place until you get a permanent fix.
For cracks that aren't as deep try using a tough adhesive designed specifically for windows, like Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech adhesive is designed to bond to glass and dries crystal clear for an ideal finish. Apply it to the crack and let it completely dry before applying another layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are usually caused by large temperature changes and can rapidly spread across the entire window if not addressed. To stop stress cracks from occurring make a small arc with glass cutters near the crack. This stops the crack from advancing, and can reduce the size by a day or so.
Take a look at the frame of the broken window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly bigger than the opening to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to make up for any imperfections in the frame or the glass. Once you've cut the new glass to size apply glaziers' compounds around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound dries then paint it over it to match the frame of the window.
Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside
Condensation inside double-glazed windows is usually an indication that a seal on the window unit has failed. This is a significant issue because it indicates that heat from your home is lost through the window and can be costly to both you and your energy bills.
Double glazing is designed to stop heat transfer between two panes by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air from exiting the home. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation will develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you are unable to solve condensation issues on double-glazed windows by opening windows by using extractors, dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, you might require the assistance of a professional.
Condensation on the exterior of double-glazed windows is uncommon however it can happen when the seal has started to break down between the glass and the window frame. It is more prevalent in winter, when temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. The primary reason for this is a flaw in the spacer that is placed between the window and the frame. This spacer often contains desiccant that is extremely absorbent and can absorb excess moisture.
The problem with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it begins to break down, and eventually moisture can start to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can cause water and condensation to build in the gap which is difficult to get rid of.
The positive side is that many reputable window companies will offer an assurance on their products and should replace the window unit and glass if it has been damaged by condensation. Inform any issues as quickly as possible to the window manufacturer so that the condensation is repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just a visual problem, it could pose a security risk, especially if the crack has been expanding. It is recommended to get it repaired as soon as you can. You can use glass adhesives for vehicle windows which you can purchase on the internet or in numerous auto maintenance shops. Alternately, you can make use of a glass compound designed for use in homes, which can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Before beginning any task, put on thick gloves that are cut-proof and safety glasses. Then, sweep the area to remove large pieces of shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will prevent them from cutting yourself or a glass repair professional in the future.
It is best to stand on a ladder instead of on the ground. This will allow you to reach all areas of the frame and keep you safe from falling glass. It's also recommended to wash the rabbet before proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame where glass will be. Apply a coat linseed to the rabbet and wipe it down. This will aid in helping the putty stick.
Once the frame is cleaned and the rabbet prepared, it's the time to plan the replacement of the broken pane. Order a piece of double strength glass that is one inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need glass points, which are made of metal triangles which keep the glass in the right place.
After removing the window sash, use a flat pry-bar to gently pull the sash free of the moulding of wood. It is possible scrape off old glazing using a utility knife or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to remove.
After the frame is removed from the moulding then gently press the new glass in its place. Then, using a glazier's or putty knife's point, fill the gaps around it and smooth the edges. When the putty is dry paint it to match the rest of the frame. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear protective eyewear and gloves when replacing a broken pane of glass. Whitstable window repair off the area around the damaged window to prevent it from shattering again in a different area after you remove it.
Begin by removing the old glaze compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame with a utility knife. Clean the entire frame opening, and then apply a layer of linseed to aid in adhering the new putty better.
Once the frame is ready to be measured, you can take measurements for an entirely new window and buy it from a home improvement store or any other retailer. The panes should be 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than you measurement. This will ensure a snug fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than you think, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure correct fit and a long life span for your new pane. Use a wire brush to clean the frame of old paint or wood gunk, and then sand it down to bare wood, which will enhance the seal between the frame and the sash.
Make use of the tip of the putty knife while inserting the new pane to lightly place it against the frame of wood. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new pane securely in the frame.
Once the frame has been cured, coat the new joint with several coats of paint that match the rest of the frame. Let the paint completely dry before proceeding to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring they function properly will increase their life expectancy and improve the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are outdated or not in great shape it is possible that you would be better off having the complete replacement of your windows. If you decide to go this route, we suggest choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that will lower the cost of your utility bills. The kind of window you pick will also affect the total cost of your project.