Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a huge difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly true for older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace glazing points by putting the window in place, however it is much simpler and quicker if you remove the glass and frame. This is also an excellent chance to replace the gaskets on the rubber.
Broken Glass
Cracked windows aren't just unattractive, but also allow valuable heat and sunlight to escape your home. It is possible to repair a broken pane of glass without having to replace the entire window.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. You should also put a piece of tape in an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will prevent any broken glass from falling onto your work surface as you work.
If you've got a tiny crack in your window glass, cover it with tape to keep out water, wind, 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, you should use an extra-strong plastic cover like a tarp or trash bag, to keep the glass in place until you can find a permanent solution.
Make sure you use an adhesive that is strong and designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a great choice. This high-tech adhesive is designed to bond to glass and dries crystal clear for a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and let it dry completely before applying another layer.
Stress cracks are another common issue that can occur to your glass window. Stress cracks are typically caused by large temperature changes and can rapidly spread across the entire window if not addressed. To prevent stress cracks make an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters near the crack. This stops the crack from spreading, and can reduce the size by a few days.
Measure the frame of the broken window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly bigger than the opening in order to allow for expansion and contraction and also to compensate for any imperfections in the frame or on the glass. Once you've cut the glass to size apply glaziers' compounds around the edges of the frame and the glass. After the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Condensation inside of Double Glazed Windows
The appearance of condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows typically indicates that the seal has been damaged somewhere along the window unit. This is a serious issue because it indicates that the heat that is coming from your home is lost through the window, and could be costly for you and your energy bills.
Double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a secure seal that prevents warm air from escaping. But, if the glass is colder or colder than the surrounding frame, condensation will accumulate on it, which can damage the window. If you notice condensation on your double glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows, using extractor fans, using dehumidifiers or trickle venting, then you may need to call in an expert.
Condensation on the exterior of double-glazed windows is rare, but it can occur if the seal has begun to weaken between the glass and the frame. This is more common in winter when the temperatures are lower and it's easier for condensation to develop. The main cause of this is a defect in the spacer that is placed between the frame and the window. The spacer usually contains desiccant that is extremely absorbent and can absorb excess moisture.
This could lead to moisture seeping through the gap after the desiccant is saturated. This could lead to condensation and water in the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.
Most reputable window companies offer a warranty and replace the glass and unit of a window if it is damaged by condensation. It is essential to report any issues to your window installer immediately you spot them so that the condensation can be repaired promptly to avoid further damage to the window unit as well as the frame surrounding it.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window is more than an aesthetic issue. It can also pose a safety risk, especially if it is spreading. It's best to have it fixed as quickly as possible. Glass adhesives are available for windows in vehicles which you can purchase online or in numerous auto maintenance shops. You can also use a glazing compound intended for home use and can be purchased at a variety of hardware or home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety goggles before you start any work. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large pieces of shards. You'll also want to clean up any chips that fell. This will stop them from cutting you or a glass repair person later on.
It is a good idea to work from a ladder, instead of laying on the floor. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame more easily and protect yourself from glass falling. Before you start it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area around where glass will be placed. Clean it off and then apply the linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick to the frame securely.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet has been prepared, it is time to prepare the replacement pane. Measure the height and width of the opening in both directions and then purchase the double-strength piece of glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll need glass points, which is a metal triangle that holds the glass in the right place.
With the window sash out of the way, carefully pull it away from the wood molding with a straight pry bar. You may have to scrape off old glazing using a utility knife or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that won't come off easily. This will make it easier to remove it.
Once the frame has been removed from the mold, gently press the new glass into its place. Then, using a glazier's or putty knife's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth them out. 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 damaged piece of glass. Tape off the area around the damaged window to stop it from shattering again in a different location when you take it off.
Start by removing double glazing repair and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood sash frame using a utility knife. Clean the frame opening and apply a coat of linseed oil in order to help the new putty stick to it better.
After the frame is made, measure it to determine the dimensions of a new windowpane. Then, purchase it from a home improvement retailer or another retailer. Be sure to purchase the pane at least 1/6th inch smaller in every direction than the measurement to ensure an ideal fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than it sounds, but make sure you follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure correct fit and a long life for your replacement pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any old paint or gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood down to the bare wood in order to increase the seal.
Make use of the tip of the putty blade when inserting the new pane to lightly place it against the frame of wood. Then, press the glazier's points into the frame approximately every six inches to keep the window securely in place.
After the frame has dried, paint the new joint several times until it matches the frame. Let the paint dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring they function correctly will extend their life expectancy and improve the energy efficiency of your home. You may want to replace your windows if they are damaged or are old. If you decide to go this route, we recommend choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that will lower your energy bills. The kind of window you pick will also influence the total cost of your project.