The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They follow strict safety protocols and often work under extreme weather conditions.
Wearing protective clothing, remove the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty using an utility knife. A heat gun can help soften and remove the old putty.
Replacement
If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to repair the glass instead of replace it. It is cheaper to replace a window and it can also help avoid other issues that could affect your home's efficiency. It is also important to consider the kind of glass that is broken to determine if it is temporary or if you'll need to invest in a more permanent solution.
The first step to repair a broken window is to take off the sash, or frame and place it flat on a work table. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle and pull out any shards remaining in the window pane. Then, use a utility knife to remove the glazing compound as well as the glazing points that keep the glass in the position. Keep track of the components and where they are so that they can be put back in place.
After removing the frame and sash, you can start preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. To allow for frame and glass expansion and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, purchase double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions. It is a good idea to also purchase enough glazier's clips, or points to place them every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible for this, you can call them and make a claim. Once the new glass is installed, it needs to be sprayed with a thin layer of the compound used by glaziers. After the compound has dried then you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If your crack is more than an inch in length, you can prevent it from expanding by slicing the crack with a small arc, just above the crack. This method isn't foolproof, but it can slow the progression of the cracked until you can take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers have the right tools and know how to handle different kinds of glass. They are able to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other contractors to leave behind scraps that could inflict harm on family pets or members of the family. They're also accustomed to working with different window types and may be capable of identifying issues that might not be apparent to an inexperienced homeowner.
Wear safety goggles and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing damaged glass. A minor crack could cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone living in or around the home. It's also important to determine what caused the crack in the first place, as it can help prevent future problems.
Make a two-part mixture of epoxy. They are usually a 50/50 mixture of resin and hardener and must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture has been prepared, apply it directly to the crack and allow it to dry. It should take only some minutes, but you need to be quick because the mixture is thick and drys very quickly.
After the epoxy has dried, you can take off excess epoxy with a blade. After that, you'll need clean the area around the cracked glass. If you don't do this correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned using a putty knife, you can use it to smooth the compound along the edges of the window and align it with the wood frame.
You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. You can cover the glass using masking tape or a heavy-duty trash bag. This will prevent the crack from spreading and will also keep water, wind and bugs out.
You can create an interim fix when you are unable get to the window in time. Simply place a tiny amount of the material around the outside of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you can repair it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you might consider repainting them. This is an affordable alternative to window replacement and will give your home a fresh new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of oil smudges, and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves when working on glass surfaces to prevent the transfer of oils from your fingers onto the surface. Apply several thin coats rather than just one large coat. This will help the paint last longer and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.
Make sure you have the right tools available if you plan to repaint glass windows. You'll need a brush, sponge, painter's adhesive, toothpicks, a ruler and other tools, such as a rag or paper towel. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll need for the project on hand. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Have patience, as it may take a while for the paint to completely dry.
Also, ensure that the space you're working is well ventilated, especially if you're using solvent-based paint. This will help to reduce the risk of breathing harmful chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
For older glass windows, it is necessary to prepare the surface prior painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure that the windows are dry before you begin coating them.
If your glass windows are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be in a position to file a claim with the dealer or window company that sold them to pay any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if you have experienced multiple problems with cracked glass or condensation and the windows are covered by warranty.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with cracked seal or newer insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging, there are several methods for fixing the problem. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame however it could be necessary if condensation or fog is causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single pane, or repairing the IGU that is in place by drilling a hole in the bottom and filling it with an anti-fogging solution.
You can also fill in the gap between the window frame and the sill or threshold by using a felt strip, vinyl v-strips, or door sweep. Felt is inexpensive and can be fixed by gluing, nailing or stapled in place but it doesn't provide much protection from moisture. Vinyl weather stripping that is v-strip is strong and simple to install, but it is costly and is generally used for areas that are subject to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps can be easily nailed to the floor and are affordable. However, they offer only a small amount of protection between the threshold and air.
To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves carefully remove the glazing points -- tiny fasteners that pin the glass in the frame's recess, with sharp, pointed ends. After removing the glazing points, clean out the grooves, then sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, but the use of a knife allows for a more precise application, and a more secure seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it will have higher adhesion and durability.
Apply a thin bead of the putty on the inside edge of the frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame so that the scribed line on the glass lines up with the frame's edge. Apply pressure on the glass to force the putty to form a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any caulk or drips that were applied incorrectly before it dries.