Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a major impact on the energy efficiency of your house. This is especially true for older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace the glazing points with the window in place, however it is much simpler and quicker if you remove the frame and glass. It is a good idea to replace the seals made of rubber.
Broken Glass
Broken glass isn't just unattractive, it can also let valuable heat and sunlight escape from your home. It is possible to repair the glass that is cracked without having to replace the entire window.
Begin by putting on your protective gloves and safety glasses. You should also place a piece of tape in an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tap works well). This will prevent any broken glass from falling onto you as you work.
Cover a small crack in your window with tape to keep insects, water and wind from getting. One strip of tape is sufficient for cracks with a superficial appearance, but if you're worried about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, consider using a more durable plastic cover like a tarp, or a garbage bag, to hold the glass in place until you obtain a permanent fix.
For cracks that aren't quite as shallow, try using a strong adhesive designed specifically for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is designed to attach to glass and then dry clear for a flawless finish. Apply it to the crack and allow it dry completely before applying a new layer.
Stress cracks are another common problem that can happen to your glass window. Stress cracks are usually caused by large temperature changes and can rapidly spread across the entire window if they are not addressed. To stop stress fractures from occurring using a glass cutter, you need to score a small arc near the crack. This prevents the crack from advancing, and can reduce the size by a day or so.
Examine the frame of the broken window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly smaller than the opening to allow for expansion and contraction, and to cover any imperfections in the frame or glass. Once you've cut the glass to the proper size, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound is dry paint it over to match the rest of the window frame.
Condensation on the inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows is typically an indication that the seal on the window unit has failed. This is an important issue because it indicates that heat from your home is lost through the window, and can be costly to both you and your energy bills.
Double glazing is designed to stop heat transfer between two panes by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a tight seal that prevents warm air from venting. If the glass is cooler than the frame, condensation will develop on the glass and cause damage to 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.
Condensation of the outside of double-glazed windows is not common, but it can occur if the seal has begun to deteriorate between the glass and the frame. It's more frequent in winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation. The primary reason for this is a fault in the spacer used between the window and the frame. The spacer usually contains desiccant that is highly absorptive and can absorb excess moisture.
The issue is that once the desiccant gets saturated, it will start to break down and then moisture can start to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can lead to condensation and water leaking into the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.
The majority of reputable window manufacturers offer a warranty and replace the unit and glass of a 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 soon as it can to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged or cracked window is more than an aesthetic problem. It could also be a safety risk, especially if it is spreading. It is recommended to get it repaired as quickly as possible. You can use glass adhesives for vehicle windows that can be purchased online or in numerous auto maintenance shops. Alternately, you can make use of a glazing compound formulated for use at home and can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Before beginning any work, wear thick protective gloves and safety glasses. Then, sweep the area to remove large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will stop them from causing injury to you or a glass repair worker later on.
double glazing repairs to stand on a ladder instead of on the ground. This will make it easier to reach all areas of the frame, and will ensure that you are safe from falling glass. Before you begin it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area where glass will be placed. Wipe it down and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick to the frame securely.
Once the frame is cleaned and the rabbet ready, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the damaged pane. Take measurements of the width and height of the opening in both directions Then, you can order the double-strength piece of glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. Also, you'll need to purchase glass points, which are metal triangles that help to hold the glass in place.
With the window sash removed from the way, carefully pry it away from the wood molding using a straight pry bar. You may have to scrape old glazing off using a utility knife or chisel. Then you can use the heat gun to warm up any putty that isn't able to come off. This will make it much easier to peel it off.
Once the frame has been free from the molding, carefully press the new glass into its new location. Then, using a putty knife or glazier's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth them out. Once the putty is dry paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint it slightly over the edge of the compound and onto the glass to seal it completely.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape the area around the window to prevent it from breaking once you remove it.
Make use of a utility knife to cut off the old glazing compound from the frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Then, clean the entire frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil in order to help the new stick of putty to it better.
Once the frame is prepared, measure it to determine the size of a new windowpane. Then, you can purchase it at an home improvement store or another retailer. Be sure to purchase the pane 1/6th inch shorter in each direction than your measurement to ensure an ideal fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than you think, however ensure you follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure the correct 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 increase the seal.
When putting the new pane in place, use the tip of your putty knife to gently place the window on the frame made of wood. Then, press the glazier's points into the frame about every six inches to secure the window securely in the frame.
When the frame is cured, coat the new joint with several coats of paint that match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before proceeding to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good shape and ensuring they work properly will increase their lifespan and increase the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are older or are in poor condition it is possible that you would be better off having a full window replacement. If you decide to go this route, we suggest choosing a high-quality, insulated window that can reduce the cost of your utility costs. The type of window you select will also influence the total cost of your project.