Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially important in older double-glazed windows.
While it is possible to replace glazing points while the window is still in place, it's faster and simpler if the glass and frame are removed. This is also a good chance to replace the rubber gaskets.
Broken Glass
Cracked windows are not only ugly, but they can also allow valuable sunlight and heat to escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a damaged window without having to go through a full replacement.
Wear safety glasses and gloves. You can also apply duct tape or painter's tape to make an "X" on the glass you want to remove. This prevents any shattered pieces from falling when you work, which could save you from serious injury.
Cover a small crack on your window glass with tape to keep water, insects and wind out. If the crack is superficial and only a single strip tape is enough. However, if the weather is likely to get worse before you can replace the window, you may prefer a sturdy plastic cover such as an tarp or trash bag.
For cracks that aren't as deep, try using a strong adhesive designed specifically for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to adhere to glass and dry clear for a flawless finish. Apply it to the crack, and let it dry completely before applying another layer.
Stress cracks are a different problem that can happen to your glass window. They're typically caused by dramatic temperature fluctuations, and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if not repaired. To stop stress cracks from occurring, score an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters close to the crack. This stops the crack from spreading, and may slow it down by a few days.
Measure the frame of the broken window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly smaller than the opening to allow expansion and contraction and to compensate for any imperfections in the frame or glass. After you've cut your glass to size apply glaziers' compounds around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound dries paint it over to match the rest of the window frame.
Condensation inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation on the inside of double-glazed windows is typically an indication that a seal on the window unit has failed. This is a serious problem, as it can indicate that heat is being 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 stops warm air from venting. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation will develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you've got condensation on your double-glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers, or by trickle venting, you might need to call in a professional.
It's much rarer for condensation to appear on the exterior of double-glazed windows, but it could occur if the seal between the glass and window frame has started to deteriorate. This is more prevalent in winter as the temperature is lower, making it more likely for condensation to develop. The most likely cause is a defect in the spacer that is placed between the window and the frame. The spacer is made up of desiccant which is very absorbent and will soak up any excess moisture.
The issue with this is that once the desiccant is saturated, it begins to break down and moisture can start to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can cause condensation and water to build up in the gap, which is difficult to get rid of.
Most reputable window companies provide a guarantee and will replace the glass and unit of the window if it's damaged by condensation. Report any problems as soon as possible to the window manufacturer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as fast as it can to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just an aesthetic issue, it can also present a security risk especially if the crack is spreading. It's best to have it repaired as soon as you can. There are many ways to go about it by using glass adhesives designed for vehicle windows, which can be purchased through the internet or at numerous auto repair shops. Alternatively, you can make use of a glass compound designed for home use, which can be found in a lot of hardware and home improvement stores.
Before beginning any work, wear thick gloves that are cut-proof and safety glasses and sweep the area to eliminate large pieces of shards. You'll also want to remove any chips that fell. This will stop them from cutting you or a glass repair technician later on.
It's a good idea work on a ladder instead of standing on the floor. This will enable you to access all parts of the frame with ease and protect your glass from falling. It's also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet prior to proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame where the glass will go. Clean double glazing repairs near me and then apply the linseed oil to the rabbet. This will help the new putty stick in place.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet is prepared It's time to prepare the replacement pane. Measure the height and width of the opening both ways and then purchase a piece of double-strength glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll need to purchase glass points, which is a metal triangle that keeps the glass in place.
With the window sash off the way, carefully pull it off of the wood molding using a flat pry bar. You may need to scrape off old glazing putty using a utility knife or chisel. Then, use the heating gun to warm any putty that isn't able to fall off. This will make it easier to remove.
After the frame is removed from the molding then gently press the new glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with either a glazier's tipped or a knife. After the putty dries, paint it to match the frame. Paint it slightly over the edge of the compound, then onto the glass to seal it completely.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from glass shatters. Tape off the area around the broken window to prevent it from shattering in a different location when you remove it.
Begin by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame using a knife. Then, clean the entire frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil to make the new putty stick to it better.
When the frame is complete to be measured, you can measure it for the new window pane. Then purchase it from a local home improvement store or any other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a perfect fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than it sounds, but make sure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure the right fit and long life span for your new pane. Use a wire brush to rid the frame opening of any old paint or wood gunk, and then sand it down to bare wood in order to increase the seal between the frame and the sash.
When you're putting the new pane in place, use the tip of your putty knife to lightly place the window on the frame made of wood. Then, press the glazier's points into the frame every six inches to secure the new window securely in the frame.
Once the frame is cured and the joint is painted, you can paint it multiple times to match the frame. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and working well will prolong their lifespan and increase your home's energy efficiency. It is possible to replace your windows if they are older or in poor condition. If you decide to go this option, we suggest you choose the highest-quality, well-insulated window that can reduce your utility costs. The type of window you select will also impact the overall cost of your project.