Don't Believe In These "Trends" About Glass Window Repair
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Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work up off the ground, maneuvering massive glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and are often working in extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, cut off the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften the old glue and make it easier to remove.
Replacement
It is tempting to fix the window glass instead of replacing it when the glass breaks. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. Take a look at the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is required.
To fix a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash, and lay it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently move the window's pane and then remove any remaining fragments. Then, use a knife to remove the glazing compound and glazing points that keep the glass in place. Be sure to keep the track of these components and their locations to ensure that they can be reinstalled later.
After you've removed the frame and sash, you can begin to prepare to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Measure both sides of the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave room for expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. Afterwards, purchase double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions. It is also recommended to purchase enough new glazier's clips or glazier's points to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.
Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you should call them to file a claim. After the new glass has been put in place, it is important to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. Once the compound has dried, you can paint the frame to match.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, scoring a small arc with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to stop it from spreading further. This trick is not foolproof however it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass and have the tools to do an excellent job. They know how to dispose of waste properly and are therefore less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with different types of windows, and may be able to spot problems that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.
Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, be sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. A minor crack could cause shards to fly, which could pose a risk to anyone who lives in or around the home. It's also crucial to determine what caused the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.
Start by making a two-part epoxy mixture. These are usually 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener, and they must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been made then apply it directly to the crack and let it dry. It will take just some minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is very dense and fast drying.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off any excess using a putty knife. You'll then need to clean around the cracked glass. If you don't clean the area properly, the leftovers could cause further damage to the 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 made of wood.
If you want a more durable solution think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and insects out.
If you're not able to get to the window in a timely manner and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to make temporary repairs. Simply apply a small amount of the substance around the outside edge of the damaged pane. It won't completely seal the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to repair it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you might consider repainting them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and will give your house a new look. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, as well as other residues which can prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the window's surface. Apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick one. This will make the paint last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the proper tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's tape a ruler, toothpicks, and other tools such as a rag or paper towel. You'll need the brushes and paints you'll be using on hand. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and have plenty of patience as it can take a while for the paint to dry.
If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well ventilated. This will lower the risk of breathing in toxic chemicals and permit the paint to dry quicker. Also, make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface before painting. Clean the glass window thoroughly using soap and warm water, then apply rubbing alcohol to wash away any grease or oil that could affect the paint's adhesion. Be 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 file an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or dealer that sold the windows. This is especially relevant if you've had numerous issues with cracked glass or condensation while the windows are still covered by warranty.
Sealing
There are several ways to resolve the issue, regardless of whether you have an older double-pane window that has cracks in the seal, or if you own a newer insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be required if fog or condensation cause energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU by a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in its bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging product.
You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt here strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled to the frame, but it does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are simple to install and durable however it can be expensive. It is typically used in areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed in place and are cheap. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.
To repair a damaged window seal first, you must use a putty blade to remove the old caulk. Wearing protective eyewear and gloves take care to remove the glazing points -- small fasteners that pin the glass to the frame's recess, with sharp edges and pointed edges. Once you have removed the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood until it is smooth. Clean any sanding dust 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 a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Choose a putty that is specifically designed for glass windows, since it has better adhesion and durability.
Apply a thin layer of putty across the inside of the frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to press the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any drips or caulk that were not properly applied before it has dried.