Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a huge difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true for older double-glazed Windows.
While it is possible to replace glazing points when the window is still in place, it's quicker and easier to do so if the frame and glass are removed. This is also an excellent chance to replace the gaskets on the rubber.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but it also allows valuable heat and sunlight escape your home. It is possible to repair damaged glass without replacing the entire window.
Start by putting on protective gloves and safety goggles. You can also use duct tape or painter's tap to create an "X" on the glass you want to remove. This will prevent any shattered glass from falling onto you as you work.
If you've noticed 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, if the weather is expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you might prefer a sturdy plastic cover such as the trash bag or tarp.
For cracks that aren't as deep try using a tough adhesive designed specifically for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is designed to attach to glass and then dry transparent to give a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack, and let it completely dry before applying another layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are usually caused by drastic temperature changes and can spread rapidly across the entire window if they are not addressed. To stop stress cracks from occurring make an arc of a tiny size with a glass cutter near the crack. This will stop the crack from expanding and reducing the severity for several days.
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 glass or frame. After cutting the glass, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of the frame and glass. Once the compound is dry, paint over it to match the rest of the frame.
Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double-glazed windows typically indicates that a seal has broken somewhere in the window unit. This is a serious problem and could indicate that heat is being lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing is designed to stop heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a seal that prevents warm air from venting. But, if the glass is colder or colder than the frame, then condensation can build up on it and damage the window. If double glazing window repairs are unable to solve condensation issues on double-glazed windows by opening windows by using extractors, dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, you may need an expert.
It's much rarer for condensation to appear on the outside of double-glazed windows but it can happen when the seal between the glass and the window frame has started to deteriorate. This is more frequent in winter, when the temperature is lower, making it more easy for condensation to form. The main cause of this is a flaw in the spacer that is used between the frame and the window. This spacer often contains desiccant that is highly absorptive and can absorb excess moisture.
The issue is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it will begin to break down and moisture will begin to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can cause condensation and water to build within the gap, which is difficult to remove.
The majority of reputable window manufacturers offer a warranty and replace the glass and unit of a window if it's damaged by condensation. Make sure to report any issues as soon as you can to the window manufacturer so that the condensation is repaired as fast as possible to prevent further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just an aesthetic issue, it could also present a security risk especially if the crack has been spreading. It is recommended to get it fixed as soon as you can. Glass adhesives can be used for vehicle windows that you can buy on the internet or at numerous auto maintenance shops. You can also use a glazing compound for use at home that is available at a variety of hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on thick gloves and safety goggles prior to begin any work. Sweep the area to remove any large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will stop them from causing injury to you or a glass repair person later on.
It is a good idea to work from a ladder, instead of standing on the ground. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame with ease and will protect your glass from falling. It is also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet prior to proceeding with the installation. This is the part of the frame around the window frame, where glass will be. Apply a coat of linseed on the rabbet and then wipe it clean. This will help the putty adhere.
After the frame is cleaned and the rabbet is prepared It's now time to prepare the replacement 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 shorter in both directions. You'll need glass points which is a metallic triangle that holds the glass in place.
With the window sash taken off using a flat pry-bar to carefully pry the sash off of the moulding of wood. You may have to scrape off old glazing with a utility knife or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that won't come off easily. This will make it easier to peel it off.
Once the frame has been free of the mold then carefully press the new glass into its place. Then, using a glazier's or putty knife's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth the edges. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame to match. Lap the paint 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 pane, first wear eye protection and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards. Tape off the area around the broken window to prevent it from shattering again in a different spot after you remove it.
Begin by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame using a knife. Clean the 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 make sure you measure it to get an entirely new window and buy it from a home improvement store or another retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than you measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.
Installing the new window is easier than you think, however make sure you follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure correct fit and a long-lasting life for your replacement pane. Use a wire brush to clean the frame of old paint or wood gunk, and then sand it down to bare wood, which will increase the seal between the frame and sash.
Make use of the tip of the putty blade when putting in the new pane to lightly place it against the frame of wood. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new pane firmly in position.
Once the frame has been cured, coat the joint with a few coats of paint that match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Making sure your windows are clean and operating correctly will prolong their useful lifespan and increase your home's energy efficiency. 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 down this route, we suggest choosing the highest-quality, well-insulated window that will lower your utility costs. The type of window you select will also impact the overall cost of your project.