Window Glass Repairs

Condensation between windows can cause damage to the strength and durability of double-pane windows. If you are an owner of a home or building facing a situation like this, there are many temporary fixes to consider before committing to a more permanent solution.

Find the height and width of the opening for the frame. To order a slightly smaller glass pane, subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement. This will make the installation easier and allow for seasonal expansion and contraction.

Cracks

Cracks in windows could be caused by a pebble that was thrown from your lawnmowers, Window glass repairs a vase knocked over by a pet or the sudden change in the weather. In general, these types of cracks are fixable at home if you're willing to put in a little time. However, if the crack is greater than one inch, a single-pane glass or double-paned window with a hole through both panes, it is recommended to seek out an expert to fix the damage.

You can repair double glazing windows a small crack or one at the frame's edge by applying a stripe of clear packing tape on either side. This will prevent the crack from spreading and also seal the gap to the outside, blocking wind, rain, bugs and other debris. Keep in mind, however, that this fix is temporary as cracks in glass typically develop over time.

For more severe cracks in the glass, you can make use of two-part epoxy to fill in the damage. First, you need to thoroughly clean the area affected and take out all pieces of broken glass. Mix the epoxy in a place that is well ventilated on a piece or paper plate. The mixture is usually a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. However, you should follow the directions on the product you are using. The epoxy becomes thicker quickly after mixing and should be applied immediately. Apply the adhesive to the crack and smooth it in place with your putty knife. Allow to dry for five minutes.

Clear nail polish is another option for crack repair at home. Similar to super glue, the nail polish will fill in and bind the cracks together, stopping them from spreading. Be sure to allow the nail polish to completely dry, since cleaning or washing the area may cause it to come off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is important, especially for older windows that are getting old. These gaps can let water and other elements into the home.

Leaks

Accidents that happen indoors, like the misplaced baseball or furniture move that wasn't well-planned are the most common causes of cracked glass. Outdoor incidents, such as strong winds can cause the glass to be blown out of its frame. Caulking is a method to repair cracks in glass. This repair procedure can be done with either polysulfide or silicon caulking depending on the kind of glass and the materials used in making the frame.

The best time to perform this repair on your windows is when the weather is warm and dry. This will allow you to apply the sealant in a dry environment and allow it to set before it is exposed to rain. It's important to inspect the window from both outside and inside to identify where the leak is. Make sure that the weep holes on the frame are free of debris and insect corpses. This will prevent the water from getting in.

If you notice the appearance of a water trail, it is a sign that the window is leaking. Use a pry-bar to remove the trim to take a closer look at the joint. If you see signs of rot it will need to be replaced with a wood filler before applying the caulking. Then, the surface is sanded and cleaned before applying the caulking, which is then allowed to dry overnight.

Another type of leak is a structural one that is usually caused by an unsound or damaged wall around the window. It's more difficult to spot since it's not always directly below the window. If you notice damp patches on the walls in the vicinity of the frame, it's likely that there's an opening in the wall that is letting water enter and accumulate above or below the window studs.

In this case it is recommended to have an expert look into the situation and recommend a proper method of action. If the problem is severe, then it's probably best to replace the window entirely and allow you to enjoy improved energy efficiency in your home.

Broken Panes

If a severe storm, a baseball thrown by your kids, or another mishap results in your window glass breaking into shards, then you should contact a professional. The majority of DIYers can replace a single pane in the window's narrow, small size. However replacing double-paned windows requires special tools that should be left to professionals.

When a double pane window breaks, a gap that is energy-efficient is created. To prevent the cold air, water and other critters from making their way into your home and increasing your utility bills, you should call a window repair professional to replace the entire unit rather than just the broken piece of glass.

The first step to repair your double-pane windows is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves make sure you break the shards of glass into manageable pieces. Once you've removed the glass, use a putty knife to scrape off the glazing compound and points. This process is messy, but it's necessary to ensure that the glass will fit in the window frame.

After the wood is exposed and you have a scraper, smooth it. If necessary a chisel can be used to loosen any moldings made of wood that are too tight or stuck to the window frame. To prevent rot and mold, seal the wood with linseed or clear caulk for windows.

Double-glazed windows require the assistance of a professional to avoid any issues. Double-glazed windows differ in size and dimensions from single panes, and need to be designed by a professional to ensure that they fit properly.

Homeowners usually decide to replace their window glass when they observe condensation or moisture between the windowpanes, a crack that is rapidly spreading, higher energy bills in summer and winter or the need to comply with regulations for older windows. Replacement of windows can be a cost-effective option for those who are considering changing the appearance of your house or upgrading to more energy efficient windows.

Replacement

Most homeowners replace window glass in the event of cracks or broken, or if the single-paned windows are old and outdated. This is a costly project, but it could also boost the efficiency of energy and lower the noise levels in homes. It is recommended to contact an expert to install your new windows to be sure that the job is done correctly. A professional will know the different types of glasses and select the best one for your home. They also know the proper method to install it, which will help you save money in the long run.

Tape the crack using masking or packing tape, and then extend the tape to both sides of the break. This will prevent the crack from expanding as you work on fixing it. You can then apply clear nail varnish to the damaged area to seal it and shield it from the elements. You can do up to three layers of nail polish, and let it dry thoroughly between each application.

You can use an utility knife to cut off old glazing putty. You will also need to remove any clips or nails used to hold the pane. After you have removed the old pane clean the edges of the glass and frame to ensure that there are no shards left behind. Then, you can re-install the window pane. Apply silicone caulk if there is a gap to help the glass adhere to the frame.

The same process can be used for a larger window, though it might be more difficult. You will need ladders to access second story windows, and you could have to remove decorative features such as mullions and muntins that divide the glass panes to make them look more attractive. This type of work is best left to a professional window repair or replacement service, as they can handle these issues quickly and safely. They will also be acquainted with the correct procedures for cleaning up garbage, which will stop it from falling on pets or family members.