Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a big impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true in older double-glazed windows.
While it is possible to replace the glazing points when the window is still in place, it's faster and simpler to do so if the frame and glass are removed. This is also an excellent occasion to replace the gaskets on the rubber.
Broken Glass
Broken glass isn't just unattractive, it can also let valuable heat and sunlight escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a damaged window without the need for full replacement.
Put on safety goggles and gloves. Also, you should put a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tap works well). This will prevent any broken pieces from falling while you work, which could keep you from serious injuries.
Cover a small crack on your window glass with tape to keep bugs, water and wind from getting. One strip of tape should be enough to cover any cracks that are superficial, but if you're worried about the weather becoming worse before you can replace your window, you should use an extra-strong plastic cover like a tarp or trash bag, to hold the glass in place until you can obtain a permanent fix.
For cracks that aren't as deep, try using a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech adhesive is designed to bond to glass and then dries crystal clear for the perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and allow it dry completely before applying another layer.
Glass windows may also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are typically caused by drastic temperature changes and can quickly spread across the entire window if they are not fixed. To prevent stress cracks create an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters near the crack. This prevents the crack from spreading, and can slow it down 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 make up for any imperfections in the glass or frame. After you've cut your new glass to size apply glaziers' compound around the edges of the frame and the glass. After the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double glazed windows usually indicates that a seal has broken somewhere in the window unit. This is a serious issue since it means that heat from your home is being lost through the window and could be costly for 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 an airtight seal and stops warm air from escaping the house. However, if the glass is cold or colder than the frame, condensation will accumulate on it, which can damage the window. If you notice condensation on your double-glazed window and you cannot resolve it by opening the windows with extractor fans, using dehumidifiers, or by trickle venting, then you may need to call in an expert.
It's much rarer for condensation to form on the exterior of double-glazed windows but it can happen when the seal between the glass and frame is beginning to break down. This is more common in winter when the temperature is lower, making it more easy for condensation to form. The most likely cause is a flaw in the spacer used between the frame and the window. This spacer often contains desiccant that is extremely absorbent and will soak up excess moisture.
This could result in water leaking through the gap when the desiccant is saturated. This can result in water and condensation in the gap and is very difficult to get rid of.
The majority of reputable window manufacturers offer a warranty and will replace the unit and glass of the window if it is damaged by condensation. Report any problems as soon as possible to the window manufacturer so that the condensation can be repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A window that is cracked isn't just a cosmetic issue, it can also present a security risk especially if the crack has been growing. It is recommended to get it fixed as quickly as you can. You can use glass adhesives for windows in vehicles which you can purchase on the internet or in many auto repair shops. Alternatively, you can use a glazing compound intended for use at home and can be purchased in a lot of hardware and home improvement stores.
Before starting any work, wear thick protective gloves and safety glasses and sweep the area to get rid of large pieces of shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will prevent them from causing injury to you or a glass repair person later on.
It's better to stand on a ladder than on the ground. This will enable you to access all parts of the frame more easily and also protect you from glass falling. Before you start, it's a good idea clean the rabbet. This is the area that the glass will be placed. Apply a coat of linseed to the rabbet and then wipe it down. This will aid in helping the putty stick.
After the frame is cleaned and the rabbet is prepared, it is time to make the replacement pane. Purchase a piece of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll need to purchase glass points which is a steel triangle that holds the glass in place.
With double glazing Islington removed from the way, carefully pry it away from the wood molding using an angled pry bar. You may have to scrape old glazing off using a utility knife or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to remove.
Once the frame is free from the molding, carefully press the new glass into its new location. Fill in the gaps using a glazier's tip or putty knife. Once the putty has dried, paint it to match the frame. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping the paint slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window pane, first wear gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from glass shards. Tape the window's edges to prevent it from breaking once you take it off.
Start by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame using a knife. Clean the entire frame opening and then apply a coat of linseed to help the new putty adhere better.
Once the frame is ready, make sure you measure it to get the new window pane. Then purchase it from a home improvement store or any other retailer. Make sure to order the pane one-sixth inch shorter in every direction than the measurement to ensure a snug fit.
Installing the new window is easier than you think, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure the correct fit and a long life span for your new pane. Make use of a wirebrush to clean any old paint or gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood until it is the bare wood in order to increase the seal.
When putting the new pane in place, use the point of your putty knife to gently bed the new window against the wood frame. Put glazier's tips in the frame every six inches. This will help hold the new window securely in place.
After the frame has cured and the joint is painted, you can paint it several times until it matches the frame. Let the paint completely dry before you begin cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring they function properly will increase their lifespan and improve the energy efficiency of your home. It is possible to replace your windows if they are damaged or are old. If you decide to go with this option, we recommend choosing a high-quality, insulated window to lower your energy costs. The type of window you choose will also affect the overall cost of your project.