Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a huge impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true for older double-glazed windows.
While it is possible to change the glazing points while the window is in place, it is much faster and simpler to do so if the frame and glass are removed. It is a good idea to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Cracked glass isn't just unsightly but it also allows valuable heat and sunlight escape from your home. Fortunately, it's possible to repair a broken window pane without having to go through a full replacement.
Begin by putting on your protective gloves and safety goggles. You should also place a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass you intend to remove (duct or painter's tap works well). This will prevent any broken pieces from falling while you work, which could protect you from serious injury.
Cover a small crack in your window with tape to keep bugs, water and wind out. If the crack is only superficial and only a single strip tape is enough. However should the weather be likely to get worse before you can replace the window, you might want to use a heavy-duty plastic cover like a trash bag or tarp.
Make sure you use a strong adhesive that is designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a good option. This high-tech glue was designed to bond to glass and dries clear to give a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and let it completely dry before applying a new layer.
Glass windows can 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 repaired. To prevent stress fractures, use a glass cutter to cut a small circle near the crack. This will stop the crack from spreading and slow it down for several days.
If you're replacing a broken window make sure you measure the frame to fit the new pane. It should be slightly larger than the opening to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to account for any imperfections on the frame or the glass. Once you've cut the new glass to size, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound dries, paint over it to match the rest of the window frame.
Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double-glazed windows typically indicates that the seal has been damaged somewhere in the window unit. This is a serious issue because it could mean that heat is being lost from your home through the window.
New double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between the two panes of glass by sandwiching a layer air or a vacuum between them. This creates an airtight seal and keeps warm air from exiting the house. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation will form on the glass 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 need to call in an expert.
It's less likely for condensation to form on the exterior of double-glazed windows, but it could happen when the seal between the glass and window frame has started to deteriorate. It's more frequent during winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. This is due to a defect in the spacer between the frame and the window. This spacer contains desiccant, which is extremely absorbent and will soak up any excess moisture.
The issue with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it will begin to break down and then water can begin to enter the gap between the glass units. This could lead to condensation and water leaking into the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.
The good news is that the majority of reputable window companies will offer an assurance on their products. They should replace the window unit and glass if it has been damaged by condensation. Inform any issues as quickly as possible to your window installer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A window that is cracked isn't just an aesthetic issue, it could also be a security risk, especially if the crack has been growing. It's best to have it repaired as soon as possible. Glass adhesives are available for windows in vehicles that you can buy online or in numerous auto maintenance shops. You can also make use of a glazing compound for home use, which is readily available at many hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety glasses before you begin any task. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large pieces of shards. You should also vacuum up any chips that fell. This will prevent them from cutting you or a glass repair professional in the future.
It's a good idea to climb a ladder instead of standing on the floor. This will allow you to reach all parts of the frame and keep you safe from falling glass. It's also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet prior to proceeding to the part of the frame around the window frame that is where the glass will go. Clean it off and then apply an oil coat of linseed to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick in place.
After the frame is cleaned and the rabbet has been prepared, it is time to put together the replacement pane. Get a piece made of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. Also, you'll need to purchase glass points, which are metal triangles that help to hold the glass in the right place.
With the window sash removed using a flat pry-bar to gently pry the sash away from the wood moulding. It is possible to scrape old glazing off with a utility blade or chisel. Make use of 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 glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with the glazier's tip or a putty knife. After the putty dries, paint it to match the rest of the frame. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when replacing a broken pane of glass. Tape the window's edge to prevent it from breaking again when you take it off.
Begin by removing the old glaze compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the frame with a utility knife. Then, clean the frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil to make the new stick of putty to it better.
After the frame is prepared, measure it to determine the size of a new windowpane. Then, purchase it from a home improvement store or another retailer. The panes should be 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a perfect fit.
Installing the new window is simpler than it sounds, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure a right fit and long life span for your new pane. Use a wirebrush to remove any paint or wood gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood until it is the bare wood in order to strengthen the seal.
Make use of the tip of the putty knife while inserting the new pane to bed it lightly against the frame made of wood. Press glazier's tips into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new pane firmly in position.
After the frame has dried, paint the new joint multiple times to match the frame. Let double glazing repair dry completely before proceeding to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition, and functioning properly will extend their useful lives and boost your home's energy efficiency. If your windows are outdated or are in poor condition it is possible that you would prefer replacing your windows completely. If you opt for this option, we recommend selecting a high-quality insulated window to lower your energy costs. The type of window you choose will also impact the total cost of your project.