Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a significant effect 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 to remove the glass and frame. It is a good time to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Cracked windows aren't just unsightly but can also let valuable sunlight and heat to escape your home. It's usually possible to fix a broken window without the need for full replacement.
Begin by putting on your protective gloves and safety goggles. Also, you should put a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape work well). This prevents any shattered pieces from falling as you work, which can keep you from serious injuries.
If you've noticed a small crack in your window glass, cover it with tape to block rain, wind and insects. One strip of tape should be enough for superficial cracks but if you're worried about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, you should use a more durable 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 quite as shallow, try using a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue was designed to attach to glass and then dry transparent to give 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 usually caused by extreme temperature fluctuations and can spread rapidly across the entire window if they are not fixed. To stop stress cracks from occurring make a small arc with a glass cutter near the crack. This can prevent the crack from spreading and slow it down for some days.
If you're replacing a broken window make sure you measure the frame to fit the new pane. It should be slightly bigger than the opening to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to compensate for any imperfections in the frame or the glass. After you've cut your new glass to size apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. After the compound has dried paint it over to match the rest of the window frame.
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 serious problem and could indicate that heat is lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between two panes, by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a seal that blocks warm air from venting. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation can develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you are unable remove condensation from windows with double glazing by opening windows or using extractors, dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, you might require the assistance of a professional.
It's much rarer for condensation to form on the outside of double-glazed windows but it can occur when the seal between the glass and window frame is beginning to break down. It is more common during winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier to create condensation. The primary reason for this is a fault in the spacer that is used between the frame and the window. This spacer contains desiccant, which is very absorbent and will soak up any excess moisture.
This could result in water leaking through the gap after the desiccant is saturated. This could lead to condensation and water leaking into the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.
The positive side is that many trustworthy window manufacturers will provide warranties on their products. They should replace the glass and window unit in the event of damage caused by condensation. It is crucial to report any issues to your window installer immediately you notice them, so that the condensation can be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the window unit as well as the surrounding frame.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just a visual issue, it could also pose a security risk, especially if the crack has been expanding. It is recommended to get it repaired as soon as possible. Glass adhesives can be used for vehicle windows that you can buy on the internet or at numerous auto maintenance shops. You can also apply a glazing compound for use at home that is readily available at many hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety glasses before you begin any work. The area should be swept to remove any large shards. Also, you should clean up any chips that fell. This will prevent them from causing injury to you or a glazing repair worker later on.
It is best to stand on a ladder instead of on the ground. This will enable you to reach all the parts of the frame more easily and will protect your glass from falling. It is also recommended to wash the rabbet before proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame, where the glass will go. Wipe it down and then apply an oil coat of linseed to the rabbet. This will help the new putty stick securely.
Once the frame is cleaned and the rabbet is ready, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the damaged pane. Take measurements of the width and height of the opening both ways, then order an item of double-strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need to purchase glass points, which are made of metal triangles that keep the glass in place.
With the window sash removed and the pry-bar flat, use it to gently pry the sash away from the wood moulding. You may have to scrape old glazing putty off using a utility blade or chisel. Utilize the heat gun to warm any putty which cannot be easily removed. This will make it much easier to peel it off.
Once the frame has been free of the molding then carefully press the glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with the glazier's tip or a putty knife. Once double glazing repair is dry, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window pane, you should first wear eye protection and gloves to shield yourself from glass shatters. Tape the area around the window to stop it from breaking once you take it off.
Make use of a utility knife to remove the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the entire frame opening and then apply a layer of linseed to help the new putty adhere better.
Once the frame is in place and you are ready to measure it for an entirely new window and purchase it from a home improvement store or other retailer. Make sure to order the pane one-sixth inch shorter in every direction than the measurement to ensure an ideal fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than it sounds, but ensure you follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and a long life for your replacement pane. Use a wirebrush to remove any old paint or gunk from the frame's opening. Then sand the wood down to the wood's surface to strengthen the seal.
Use the tip of the putty blade when inserting the new pane to lightly place it against the frame of wood. Put glazier's tips in the frame every six inches. This will help hold the new window securely in position.
Once the frame has been cure, paint the new joint with several coats of paint to match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before proceeding to cleaning and maintaining your window. Making sure your windows are clean and operating well will prolong their lives and improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage. You may want to replace your windows if they're damaged or are old. If you decide to go this route, we recommend choosing a high-quality, insulated window that will reduce the cost of your utility costs. The type of window you choose will also affect the overall cost of your project.