Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly true for older double-glazed windows.
While it is possible to replace glazing points when the window is still in position, it is quicker and easier if the glass and frame are removed. It is a good time to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Cracked windows are not only unsightly but can also let valuable heat and sunlight to escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a broken window pane without having to go through a full replacement.
Put on safety goggles and gloves. You can also employ duct tape or a painter's tape to make an "X" on the glass you plan to remove. This will prevent any shattered glass from falling on you as you work.
If you have a small scratch in your window glass you can cover it with tape to keep out the elements like wind, water and insects. If the crack is superficial just a single strip of tape will suffice. However in the event that the weather is expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you might need a more durable plastic cover like the trash bag or tarp.
For cracks that aren't as deep, try using a strong adhesive that is specifically designed for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to bond to glass and it dries crystal clear to give the perfect finish. Apply it to the crack, and let it completely dry before applying a new layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are typically caused by large temperature changes and can rapidly spread across the entire window if not fixed. To stop stress cracks from occurring create an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters near the crack. This will stop the crack from spreading, and can slow it down by a day or so.
Take a look at 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 glass or frame. After cutting your glass, apply glaziers compound around the edges of the frame and glass. Once the compound dries, paint over it to match the frame of the window.
Condensation on the inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation inside double-glazed windows is usually an indication that the seal on the window unit has failed. This is an important issue since it means that heat from your home is being lost through the window, and can be costly to both you and your energy bills.
Double glazing has been designed to block heat transfer between the two glass panes by sandwiching a layer air or vacuum between them. This creates a secure seal that prevents warm air from escaping. But, if the glass is cold or colder than the frame then condensation will form on it and damage the window. If you have condensation on your double glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows using extractor fans, using dehumidifiers, or by trickle venting, then you may need to call in an expert.
It's less likely for condensation to form 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 frequent in winter when the temperature is lower, making it more likely for condensation to form. The most likely cause is a defect in the spacer that is placed between the window and the frame. The spacer is often filled with desiccant which is highly absorbent and absorbs excess moisture.
The issue with this is that when the desiccant gets saturated, it will begin to break down and moisture will begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This could lead to condensation and water leaking into the gap, which is difficult to eliminate.
The good news is that the majority of trustworthy window manufacturers will provide an assurance on their products. They will replace the glass and window unit when it's damaged by condensation. Inform any issues as quickly as you can 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 or cracked window could be more than an aesthetic issue. It can also pose a safety risk, especially when it's causing. It is recommended to get it repaired as soon as you can. There are a variety of ways to go about it with glass adhesives, for instance, using ones designed for vehicle windows and can be bought on the internet or at a variety of auto maintenance stores. You can also make use of a glazing compound for home use, which is available at most hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety goggles prior to begin any task. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will stop them from cutting you or a glazing repair person later on.
It is best to stand on a ladder instead of on the ground. This will make it easier to reach all the areas of the frame, and will protect you from falling glass. Before you start it's best to clean the rabbet. This is the area where the glass will be placed. Clean it and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet. This will allow the new putty to stick in place.
Once the frame is cleaned and the rabbet in place, it's time to get ready for the replacement of the damaged pane. Find the height and width of the opening in both directions Then, you can order the double-strength piece of glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll need to buy glass points which is a steel triangle that holds the glass in the right place.
With the window sash removed using a flat pry-bar to gently pry the sash off of the wood moulding. You may have to scrape old glazing putty off with a utility blade or chisel. Utilize the heat gun to warm any putty which cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to peel off.
After the frame has been removed from the mold then gently press the new glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with the glazier's tip or a putty knife. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame to match. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window pane, first wear eye protection and gloves to protect yourself from glass shatters. Tape the window's edges to stop it from breaking when you remove it.
Use a utility blade to scrape the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the frame opening, and then apply a coat linseed to aid in adhering the new putty better.
After the frame is prepared, measure it to determine the dimensions of the new windowpane. Then, you can purchase it at a home improvement store or other retailer. The panes should be 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a perfect fit.
It's easier than you think to set up the new window. But, it's essential to follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer in order to ensure a proper fit and long-lasting replacement pane. Use a wire brush to clean the frame of old paint or wood gunk and then sand it to bare wood to improve the seal between the frame and the sash.
Make use of the tip of the putty blade when putting in the new pane to lay it gently against the frame made of wood. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will keep the new window securely in position.
After the frame has dried, paint the new joint several times until it matches the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Keeping double glazing repair looking good, and functioning well will prolong their lives and boost your home's energy efficiency. If your windows are older or are in poor condition it is possible that you would be better off having the complete replacement of your windows. If you choose to go this route, we recommend choosing a high-quality, insulated window that will lower your energy costs. The type of window you select will also impact the overall cost of your project.