Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a significant effect on the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true for older double-glazed Windows.
It is possible to replace glazing points with the window still in place, but it is much easier and faster if you take off the frame and glass. This is also an excellent chance to change the gaskets made of rubber.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but it also allows valuable heat and sunlight escape your home. Fortunately, it's often possible to repair a broken window pane without the need for a complete replacement.
Start by putting on protective gloves and safety glasses. You should also put a piece of tape in an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This prevents any shattered pieces from falling while you work, which can keep you from serious injuries.
Cover a small crack on your window glass with tape to keep bugs, water and wind out. If the crack is superficial, a single strip of tape is enough. However, if the weather is expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you may need a more durable plastic cover like an tarp or trash bag.
For cracks that aren't as shallow, try using a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows, like Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech adhesive is formulated to bond to glass and then dries crystal clear for a perfect 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 changes in temperature and can spread quickly across the entire glass window if it's not repaired. To avoid stress fractures using a glass cutter, you need to score a small arc near the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing, and may slow it down by a day or so.
If you're replacing an old 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 make up for any imperfections that may occur on the frame or the glass. After cutting your glass, apply glaziers compound around the edges of the frame and glass. Once the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation on the inside of double-glazed windows is usually an indication that a seal on the window unit has failed. This is a serious problem and could mean that heat is being lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing has been designed to stop heat transfer between the two glass panes by sandwiching a layer air or vacuum between them. This creates an airtight seal and keeps warm air from exiting the house. However, if the glass is colder or colder than the frame, condensation will build up on it and damage the window. If you are unable to solve condensation issues on double-glazed windows by opening windows, using extractors, using dehumidifiers or trickle venting, you may require professional help.
It's rare for condensation to appear on the exterior of double-glazed windows, however it can occur if the seal between the glass and frame has started to deteriorate. It's more frequent in winter, when temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. This is caused by an issue in the spacer between the frame and the window. The spacer is filled with desiccant which is very absorbent and will absorb any moisture that is present.
The problem with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it begins to break down, and eventually water can begin to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can lead to water and condensation in the gap, and can be very 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 your window installer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just a cosmetic problem, it could pose a security risk, particularly if the crack is growing. It is recommended to get it fixed as quickly as possible. There are many ways to do it by using glass adhesives designed for vehicle windows and can be bought on the internet or at a variety of auto repair shops. Alternately, double glazing repairs can make use of a glazing compound formulated for home use and can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Put on a thick pair of gloves and safety glasses before you begin any task. Clean the area thoroughly to get rid of any large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will prevent them from cutting you or a glass repair professional in the future.
It is better to stand on a ladder instead of on the ground. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame more easily and protect your glass from falling. It's also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet before proceeding, which is the part of the frame around the window frame where glass is likely to go. Wipe it down and then apply an oil coat of linseed to the rabbet. This will allow the new putty to stick securely.
Once the frame is cleaned and the rabbet is in place, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the damaged pane. Get a piece made of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need glass points, which are made of metal triangles that help to hold the glass in the right place.
With the window sash taken off using a flat pry-bar to carefully pry the sash free of the moulding of wood. You may need to scrape off old glazing with a utility knife or chisel. Make use of the heat gun to warm any putty which cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to peel off.
When the frame is out from the molding and the frame is firmly pressed, gently press the new glass into the frame. Then, with a glazier's or putty knife's point, fill the gaps around it and smooth the edges. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame to match. Paint it slightly over the edge of the compound, then onto the glass to seal it completely.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear eye protection and gloves when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape off the area surrounding the broken window to prevent it from shattering again in a different area after you remove it.
Utilize a utility blade to cut off the old glazing compound from the frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the entire frame opening and then apply a coat linseed to help the new putty adhere better.
Once the frame has been constructed, take measurements to determine the size of a new windowpane. Then, purchase it from a home improvement retailer or other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a snug fit.
Installing the new window is easier than it sounds, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure proper fit and a long life for your replacement pane. Make use of a wirebrush to clean any old paint or gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood down to the wood's surface to improve the seal.
Use the edge of the putty knife when installing the new window to bed it lightly against the frame made of wood. Press glazier's tips into the frame every six inches. This will help hold the new pane securely in place.
Once the frame is cured then paint the new joint several times to match the frame. Let the paint completely dry before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring that they function properly will increase their lifespan and improve the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are older or are in poor condition then you might be better off having a full window replacement. If you decide to go with this option, we suggest choosing a high-quality insulated windows to lower your energy costs. The type of window you select will also affect the total cost of your project.