Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can have a significant effect on the energy efficiency of your house. This is particularly true for older double-glazed Windows.
It is possible to replace glazing points with the window still in place, but it is easier and quicker if you remove the frame and glass. This is also a good chance to replace the rubber gaskets.
Broken Glass
Cracked glass isn't just unsightly, it can also let valuable sunlight and heat escape your home. It's possible to fix the glass that is cracked without replacing the entire window.
Start by putting on protective gloves and safety glasses. You should also put a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass you intend to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will stop any broken pieces from falling while you work, which could protect you from serious injury.
Cover a small crack on your window glass using tape to keep insects, water and wind out. If the crack is only superficial, a single strip of tape will be enough. However in the event that the weather is likely to get worse before you can replace the window, you may prefer a sturdy plastic cover, such as the trash bag or tarp.
For cracks that aren't as shallow, try using a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows, like Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to attach to glass and then dry transparent 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 large temperature changes and can spread rapidly across the entire window if not fixed. To stop stress cracks from occurring make a small arc with glass cutters near the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing, and can reduce the size by a day or two.
If you're replacing an old window, measure the frame for the new pane. It should be slightly bigger than the opening in order to allow for expansion and contraction and also to make up for any imperfections in the frame or on the glass. After you've cut your glass to the proper size apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. After the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double glazed windows usually indicates that the seal has been damaged somewhere along the window unit. This is a major issue and could mean that heat is being lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a airtight seal and stops warm air from escaping the home. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation could develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you have condensation on your double glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows, by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers or trickle venting then you may need to contact a professional.
It's less likely to see condensation appear on the exterior of double-glazed windows, but it could happen when the seal between the glass and the window frame has started to deteriorate. This is more common in winter, when the temperature is lower and it's more easy for condensation to form. This is due to an issue in the spacer between the frame and the window. This spacer contains desiccant, which is highly absorbent and absorbs any excess moisture.
The issue is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it begins to break down, and eventually water can begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can cause condensation and water to build in the gap which is difficult to clean out.
The good news is that the majority of trustworthy window manufacturers will provide a warranty on their products and should replace the window unit and glass in the event of damage caused by condensation. Report any problems as soon as you can to the window manufacturer so that the condensation can be repaired as fast as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just a cosmetic problem, it could be a security risk, particularly if the crack is spreading. It is best to have it fixed as soon as possible. There are a variety of methods to fix it with glass adhesives, for instance, using ones designed for vehicle windows, which can be purchased on the internet or at a variety of auto repair shops. Alternatively, you can make use of a glazing compound formulated for home use that can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Before you begin any work, put on thick protective gloves and safety glasses. You can then sweep the area to eliminate large pieces of shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will stop them from cutting you or a glazing repair person later on.
It's a good idea to work from a ladder, instead of laying on the floor. This will let you access all parts of the frame with ease and also protect your glass from falling. Before you start it's best to clean the rabbet. This is the area where the glass will be placed. Clean double glazing repairs off and then apply an oil coat of linseed to the rabbet. This will allow the new putty to stick to the frame securely.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet prepared, it's the time to plan the replacement of the damaged 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 metallic triangle that holds the glass in place.
With the window sash removed from the way, carefully pull it away from the wood molding using a straight pry bar. You may have to scrape old glazing putty off with a utility blade or chisel. Then make use of the heating gun to warm any putty that doesn't be removed. This will make it easier to peel off.
After the frame is removed from the moulding then gently press the new glass in its place. Then, with a putty knife or glazier's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth them out. When the putty is dry paint it to match the rest of 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 eye protection and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards. Tape off the area around the damaged window to stop it from breaking again in a different area when you take it off.
Make use of a utility knife to scrape the old glazing compound from the frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the entire frame opening, and then apply a coat of linseed to aid in adhering the new putty better.
When the frame is complete, take measurements for a new window pane and purchase it from a home improvement store or any other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a snug fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than you think, however be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure right fit and long life for your replacement pane. Use a wire brush to clean the frame of old paint or wood gunk. then sand it down to bare wood, which will improve the seal between the sash and frame.
Use the point of the putty knife while putting in the new pane to bed it lightly against the frame made of wood. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new window securely in position.
After the frame has cured and the joint is painted, you can paint it multiple times to match the frame. Let the paint completely dry before moving on to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good shape and ensuring they function correctly will extend their life expectancy and improve the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are older or are in poor condition then you might be better off with the complete replacement of your windows. If you choose this option, we suggest selecting a high-quality insulated window to lower your energy costs. The type of window you select will also affect the overall cost of your project.