Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a big difference to the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially important in older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to change the glazing points by putting the window still in place, but it is much easier and faster if you take off the glass and frame. It is a good idea to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Windows that are cracked aren't just unattractive, but also allow valuable heat and sunshine to escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a broken window pane without having to go through a full replacement.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. Also, you should put an X-shaped piece of tape an "X" shape on the glass you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will prevent any broken glass from falling onto you while you work.
Cover a small crack on your window glass using tape to keep insects, water and wind from getting. One strip of tape should be sufficient for cracks with a superficial appearance but if you're worried about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, use a heavier-duty plastic cover, like a tarp, or a garbage bag, to keep the glass in place until you find a permanent solution.
For cracks that aren't quite as shallow, try using a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to bond to glass and dries clear to give 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 temperature fluctuations, and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if not repaired. To stop stress cracks from occurring create an arc of a tiny size with glass cutters near the crack. This will prevent the crack from expanding and reducing the severity for a few days.
If you're replacing a broken window make sure you measure the frame to fit 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 cutting your glass, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of the frame and glass. Once the compound is dry 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 the seal has failed somewhere along the window unit. This is a significant issue because it indicates that the heat that is coming from your home is lost through the window and could be costly for you and your energy bills.
Double glazing is designed to prevent 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 then condensation will form on it and damage the window. If you have condensation on your double glazed window and you cannot resolve it by opening the windows by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers or by trickle venting, then you may require the help of an expert.
It's less likely for condensation to appear on the outside of double-glazed windows, but it could occur if the seal between the glass and frame has started to deteriorate. This is more prevalent in winter, when the temperature is lower and it's more likely for condensation to form. This is due to an issue in the spacer used between the frame and the window. The spacer usually contains desiccant which is highly absorbent and absorbs excess moisture.
The issue with this is that once the desiccant gets saturated, it will begin to break down, and eventually moisture will begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can lead to water and condensation in the gap and is very difficult to get rid of.
Bromley window repair of reputable window manufacturers offer a warranty and will replace the glass and unit of the window if it's damaged due to condensation. It is essential to report any problems to your window installer when you notice them so that condensation can be fixed as quickly as possible in order to prevent further damage to the window unit as well as the frame around it.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just a cosmetic problem, it could present a security risk especially if the crack has been growing. It is best to get it repaired as quickly as you can. Glass adhesives are available for vehicle windows that you can buy on the internet or in many auto repair shops. You can also apply a glazing compound for use at home that is available at most hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on a thick pair of gloves and safety goggles before you begin any work. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large shards. Also, you should vacuum up any chips that fell. This will stop them from cutting you or a glass repair technician in the future.
It is a good idea to work on a ladder instead of standing on the ground. This will allow you to reach all parts of the frame, and will protect you from falling glass. It's also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet prior to proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame that is where the glass will go. Clean it and then apply the linseed oil to the rabbet. This will help the new putty stick to the frame securely.
After the frame is cleaned and the rabbet has been prepared, it is time to make the replacement pane. Get a piece made of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll need to buy glass points which is a steel triangle that holds the glass in place.
With the window sash removed, use a flat pry-bar to carefully pry the sash free of the moulding of wood. It is possible to scrape off old glazing with a knife or chisel. Then make use of the heat gun to warm any putty that won't easily be removed. This will make it easier to peel it off.
Once the frame has been removed from the moulding then gently press the new glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with the glazier's tip or a putty knife. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Lap the paint slightly over the edge of the compound and onto the glass to completely seal it.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window pane, first wear gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from glass shatters. Tape the area around the window to stop it from breaking again when you take it off.
Use a utility blade to remove the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Then, clean the frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil in order to help the new stick stick stick to it better.
When the frame is complete and you are ready to take measurements for an entirely new window and purchase it from a local home improvement store or any other retailer. Order the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than you measurement. This will ensure a perfect fit.
Installing the new window is simpler than it sounds, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions to ensure a correct fit and a long life for your replacement pane. Use a wire brush to clear the frame of old paint or wood gunk, and then sand it to bare wood in order to improve the seal between the sash and frame.
Make use of the edge of the putty blade when installing the new window to lay it gently against the wood frame. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will help hold the new pane securely in the frame.
Once the frame has been cured, coat the new joint with several coats of paint to match the rest of the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Making sure your windows are clean and working well will prolong their lives and improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage. You may want to replace your windows if they are damaged or are old. If you decide to go down this route, we suggest choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that will reduce your utility bills. The type of window you choose will also influence the total cost of your project.