Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly important for older double-glazed Windows.
While it is possible to change the glazing points while the window is in place, it's faster and simpler if the glass and frame are removed. It is a good time to replace the seals made of rubber.
Broken Glass
Windows that are cracked aren't just unattractive, but also allow valuable sunlight and heat to escape your home. It's possible to fix the glass that is cracked without replacing the entire window.
Begin by putting on protective gloves and safety glasses. You can also employ duct tape or a painter's taps to create an "X" on the glass you plan to remove. This will prevent any broken pieces from falling when you work, which could keep you from serious injuries.
Cover a small crack in your window glass with tape to keep water, insects and wind out. One strip of tape should be enough to cover any cracks that are superficial however if you're concerned about the weather becoming worse before you can replace your window, consider using an extra-strong plastic cover like a tarp or trash bag, to keep the glass in place until you can obtain a permanent fix.
Make sure you use an adhesive that is strong and designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a good option. This high-tech adhesive is formulated to bond to glass, and dries crystal clear for a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and allow it dry completely before applying a new layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. They're typically caused by dramatic changes in temperature and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if not repaired. To prevent stress cracks, score an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters near the crack. This prevents the crack from spreading and can reduce the size by a day or two.
Take a look at the frame of the damaged 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. 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 interior of double-glazed windows is typically an indication that the seal along the window unit has failed. This is a serious issue as it means that the heat that is coming from your home is lost through the window and can be costly to both you and your energy bills.
Double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a secure seal that blocks warm air from venting. But, if the glass is colder or colder than the surrounding frame, then condensation can accumulate on it and cause damage to the window. If you notice condensation on your double-glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers or by trickle venting, you might require the help of a professional.
Condensation of the outside of double-glazed windows is rare, but it can occur if the seal has begun to weaken between the glass and the window frame. It is more prevalent during winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. The primary reason for this is a defect in the spacer that is used between the window and the frame. This spacer often contains desiccant that is highly absorptive and will soak up excess moisture.
The issue with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it will begin to break down, and eventually moisture will begin to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can lead to condensation and water leaking into the gap and is very difficult to get rid of.
The positive side is that many trustworthy window manufacturers will provide a warranty on their products. They should replace the glass and window unit when it's damaged by condensation. Report any problems as soon as you can to the window manufacturer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as fast as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A window that is cracked isn't just an aesthetic problem, it could be 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 window glass in your vehicle that can be purchased on the internet or at many auto repair shops. You can also make use of a glass compound designed for home use and can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety glasses before you start any work. Sweep the area to get rid of any large shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will stop them from causing injury to yourself or a glass repair professional in the future.
It is a good idea to climb a ladder instead of standing on the floor. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame with ease and protect yourself from glass falling. Before double glazing window repairs start it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area around where the glass will be placed. Clean it off and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet. This will allow the new putty to stick in place.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet prepared It's now time to make the replacement pane. Order a piece of double strength glass that is one inch smaller in both directions. You'll need to purchase glass points, which is a metal triangle that holds the glass in place.
With the window sash removed from the way, carefully pull it away from the wood molding using an angled pry bar. You may need to scrape old glazing off using a utility knife or chisel. Then, use the heat gun to warm up any putty that won't easily be removed. This will make it easier to remove.
When the frame is out from the molding and the frame is firmly pressed, gently press the glass in its place. Fill in the gaps using a glazier's tip or putty knife. When the putty is dry paint it in a manner that matches the rest of the frame. Paint it slightly over the edge of the compound, then onto the glass to completely seal it.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear protective eyewear and gloves when replacing a damaged piece of glass. Tape off the area around the broken window to stop it from shattering in a different area after you remove it.
Utilize 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 of linseed to help the new putty adhere better.
Once the frame is ready to be measured, you can measure it for a new window pane and purchase it from a home improvement store or another retailer. Make sure you order the pane at least 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement to allow for a snug fit.
Installing the new window is easier than you think, however be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure the correct fit and a long life span for your new pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any paint or wood gunk from the frame's opening. Then sand the wood down to the bare wood in order to improve the seal.
Use the point of the putty blade when installing the new window to bed it lightly against the frame of wood. Press glazier's tips into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new window securely in the frame.
Once the frame is cured then paint the new joint multiple times to match the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Keeping windows looking good and operating correctly will prolong their useful lifespan and increase your home's energy efficiency. If your windows are outdated or are in poor condition, you may be better off having the complete replacement of your windows. If you decide to go down this route, we suggest choosing the highest-quality, well-insulated window that will reduce your energy bills. The type of window you choose will also affect the total cost of your project.