Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen can maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
Wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and metal glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can help to soften the old putty and speed up removal.
Replacement
It's tempting to repair the glass of your window instead of replacing it when panes break. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective and may aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. You should also consider the type of glass that's broken to determine if it is an interim fix or if you'll require an option that is more permanent.
The first step in fixing a broken window is to take off the sash, or frame and place it flat on a table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window pane and pull out any remaining shards. Then, use a knife to cut off the glazing compound and glazing points that hold the glass in the position. Make sure you keep an eye on the components and their locations to make sure they can be reinstalled later.
Once the frame and sash have been removed, you can begin preparing to install new glass. Before doing this, make sure that the opening in the frame is properly size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glass cut to these exact measurements. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to be installed every 6 inches around each window pane.
Depending on the warranty of the window the window may be covered by the manufacturer and in this case, you must contact them to file a claim. After the new glass has been installed, it needs to be bedded in with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After drying the compound, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, scoring the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. Walton-on-Thames window repair is not foolproof but it will slow down the progression of the cracked until you are able to take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools needed to complete a proper job. They know how to dispose of waste safely which means they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind a mess that could harm family pets or family members. They are also experienced in working with different kinds of windows, and may be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner might not see.
Wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin repair work on cracked glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone who lives in or around the home. It's important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you can prevent future problems.
Create a two-part mixture of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is ready, apply it to the glass crack and let it dry. It should take only some minutes but it's important to do it quickly because the mixture is very thick and fast-drying.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you do not clean the area in a proper manner, the leftovers could cause further damage to your glass. After cleaning the glass using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edge of the window and align it with the frame of wood.
For a more durable solution, consider using a plastic cover. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also use masking tape to cover the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and insects out.
You can make an interim fix in the event that you are unable to get to the window in a timely manner. Apply a small amount silicone sealant to the edge of the damaged glass. It won't completely seal the gap between glass and frame however it will keep the broken piece in place while you fix it.
Repainting
Repainting your old glass windows is a good idea. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and give your house a new appearance. Make sure the window is clean before painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to wash away oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to avoid transferring oils from your hands onto the glass. Apply several thin coats rather than just one large coat. This will help the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking even and smooth.
Make sure you have the right tools in your arsenal when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the brushes and paint you'll be using to complete the project. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a good amount of patience as it can take awhile for the paint to dry.
It is also important to ensure that the area you're working in is well ventilated if you're using solvent-based paint. This will decrease the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry faster. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints you apply.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior to painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dried before you begin painting them.
If you have energy-efficient double pane windows on your windows, it could be possible to submit claims for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer who sold them. This is especially the case if you've experienced several issues with broken glass or condensation and the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with damaged seal or more recent insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced defogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane or repair it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close the gap between windows and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or nailed into place but doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip is easy to install and long-lasting however, it can be costly. It is usually reserved for areas exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be nailed into place but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and debris.
To repair a damaged window seal first, use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully pry out the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess with sharp and pointed ends. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood to a smooth finish. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however a knife will provide an easier application and a stronger seal. Select a putty made specifically for glass as it will last longer and stick better.
Apply a small amount of the putty to the inner edge of the frame where it touches the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on the glass is aligned with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and get rid of any drips or caulk that were not applied correctly before it has dried.