How To Outsmart Your Boss With Glass Window Repair
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Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen are able to maneuver large glass panes from a height above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glazing putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can soften and remove the old putty.
Replacement
If a window pane is broken, it may be tempting to try and repair the glass instead of replace it. However, replacing a window is often more cost-effective and can aid in preventing other issues in your home's energy efficiency. Consider the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a permanent solution is required.
To repair a broken window, you must remove the frame or sash and place it on the work surface. Wearing eye protection, carefully move the frame and remove any remaining shards in the window pane. Utilize a utility knife to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that secure the window. Make sure you keep the track of these components and their locations so that they can be put back in place later.
After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install the new glass. Before you begin, make sure that the opening in the frame is size for the replacement window. To allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame and contraction to both directions, measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also an excellent idea to buy enough new glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible for this then you should call them and make a claim. Once the new glass has been installed, it needs to be covered with a thin layer of glazier's compound. After drying the compound, you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade that is just above the crack can help to prevent it from spreading any further. This technique isn't 100% foolproof but it can slow the growth of the cracked until you can take permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers know how to handle various kinds of glass, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also know the best practices for disposing of waste, and are less likely to leave waste in the trash, which could injure family members or pets. They're also accustomed to working with different types of windows and could be able to spot issues that an inexperienced home owner might not be able to notice.
Before you begin the process of fixing cracked window glass, make sure that you wear safety goggles and gloves. Even a small crack can cause glass shards to fly and could pose a danger to anyone within or around the home. It's also crucial to determine what caused the crack in the first place, as it could help avoid future issues.
Begin by creating an epoxy mixture that has two parts. These are usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin and must be quickly mixed. Once the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and leave it to dry. This should only take a few minutes, but it's essential to get it done quickly as the mixture is extremely thick and quick drying.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can remove any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll need to clean the area around the broken glass. If you don't clean it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. Use a putty blade smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it to the wood frame.
Consider using a plastic cover for a more durable option. A heavy-duty trash bag or tarp is the best option, but you can also apply masking tape to the glass. This will stop the crack from spreading and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
If you're unable to reach the window fast enough and you're not able to get there quickly, you can use silicone sealant to create temporary repairs. Simply run a bead of the material around the outside of the broken window. It won't seal the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the break in place until you are able to fix it.
Repainting
If your glass windows are old, you may consider repainting them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing windows and can give your home a new appearance. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges, as well as other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. Wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats rather than just one large coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and will keep your windows looking smooth and even.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools available when you are planning to repaint glass windows. You'll need either a brush or sponge, painter's tap along with a ruler, toothpicks and a ruler. You should also have the brushes and paint you'll use for the project in your possession. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and be prepared with plenty of patience since it may take a while for the paint to dry.
If you are using solvent-based paints, you must make sure that the area where you work is well ventilated. This will decrease the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and the paint will dry quicker. You should also make sure you have a mask to protect yourself for any spray paints that you use.
You'll need to wash the glass window thoroughly with soap and warm water before you paint it. Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the adhesion of the paint. Make sure that the windows are completely dry before you start coating them.
If your glass windows are energy-efficient dual pane windows, you may be able to submit a claim to the dealer or window company that sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is especially true if you have experienced several issues with condensation or broken glass and the windows are covered by warranty.
Sealing
There are many ways to address the issue, regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you have an insulated unit (IGU) that has experienced defogging. The most expensive option is to replace the frame and insulated unit however it could be required if fog or condensation are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the IGU with a single-pane or fixing it by drilling a small hole in the door repair bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strips, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued or put in place, but it doesn't offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strips are easy to put up and is durable however it can be expensive. It is generally reserved for areas that are subject to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed into place but they create very little or no protection between the sill or threshold and dust, air, and other debris.
To fix a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing gloves and eye protection, pry out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the frame's recess. After you have removed the glazing points, scrub the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe away any sanding residue, then seal the bare wood using a linseed oil-based paint or clear wood sealer.
A caulking knife or putty can be used to apply the traditional glazing putty, but the use of a knife allows for an easier application and a stronger seal. Make sure you choose a putty made specifically for glass windows as it has better adhesion and long-lasting.
Apply a thin layer of putty along the inside edge of frame, where it meets the glass. Slide the window into the frame in a way that the drawn line on the glass aligns with the frame's edge. Apply pressure to the glass to compress the putty and glass into a tight seal. Smooth the compound with gloves and get rid of any drips or caulk that were applied incorrectly before it dries.