Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window
Glazing can make a huge difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true in older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to change the glazing points with the window in place, but it is easier and quicker if you remove the frame and glass. This is also a good occasion to replace the rubber gaskets.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but can also let valuable heat and sunlight escape your home. Fortunately, it's often possible to repair a broken window pane without the need for a complete replacement.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. Also, you should put an X-shaped piece of tape an "X" shape on the glass that you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will stop any broken glass from falling onto your work surface as you work.
If you have a small scratch in your window glass you can cover it with tape to block rain, wind and insects. One strip of tape is sufficient for cracks with a superficial appearance however if you're concerned about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, you should use a more durable plastic cover such as a tarp or a trash bag, to keep the glass in place until you find a permanent solution.
Make sure you use an adhesive that is strong and designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a great choice. This high-tech adhesive is designed to bond to glass, and then dries crystal clear for a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and let it dry completely before applying a new layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. They're typically caused by dramatic temperature fluctuations, and can spread quickly across the entire glass window if not treated. To prevent stress cracks create a small arc with a glass cutter near the crack. This stops the crack from advancing, and can reduce the size by a day or so.
If you're replacing a damaged window, measure the frame for the new pane. It should be slightly larger than the opening to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to compensate for any imperfections that may occur on the frame or the glass. Once you've cut the new glass to size apply glaziers' compounds around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound is dry then paint it over it to match the frame of the window.
Condensation inside of Double Glazed Windows
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double-glazed windows typically indicates that the seal has been damaged at some point along the window unit. This is a serious issue since it means that heat from your home is lost through the window, and could be costly for you and your energy bills.
New double glazing is designed to prevent heat transfer between the two panes of glass by sandwiching a layer of air or vacuum between them. This creates a airtight seal and prevents warm air from leaving the house. If the glass is cold or colder than the frame, condensation will build up on it and damage the window. If you are unable remove condensation from a double-glazed window by opening windows or using extractors, dehumidifiers or trickle venting, then you might require the assistance of an expert.
It's less likely for condensation to form on the outside of double glazed windows but it can occur in the event that the seal between the glass and frame has started to deteriorate. It is more prevalent in winter, when temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. This is caused by an issue with the spacer that is used between the frame and the window. This spacer contains desiccant, which is very absorbent and will absorb any excess moisture.
The issue is that once the desiccant becomes saturated it will begin to break down and then moisture will begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can result in 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 warranties on their products and should replace the glass and window unit when it's damaged by condensation. Make sure to report any issues as soon as you can to the window manufacturer so that the condensation is repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A damaged window isn't just an aesthetic issue, it could also be a security risk, particularly if the crack is expanding. It's best to get it repaired as soon as possible. You can use glass adhesives for window glass in your vehicle that can be purchased on the internet or in many auto repair shops. You can also apply a glazing compound for use at home that is available at a variety of hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on a thick pair of gloves and safety goggles before you begin any task. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any large pieces of shards. You should also clean up any chips that fell. This will prevent them from cutting you or a glass repair professional in the future.
It is better to climb a ladder rather than on the ground. This will enable you to reach all the parts of the frame more easily and also protect yourself from glass falling. Before you begin, it's a good idea clean the rabbet. This is the area around where glass will be placed. Wipe it down and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet. This will help the new putty stick securely.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet is prepared, it's the time to plan the replacement of the damaged 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 keeps the glass in the right place.
With the window sash removed from the way, carefully pry it away from the wood molding with a flat pry bar. You may need scrape off old glazing with a knife or chisel. Then, use the heating gun to warm any putty that doesn't fall off. This will make it much easier to peel it off.
Once the frame has been free from the molding, carefully press the glass in its place. Then, using a glazier's or putty knife's point, fill the gaps around it and smooth them out. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame to match. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear protective eyewear and gloves when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape the area around the window to stop it from breaking again when you take it off.
Make use of a utility knife to scrape the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the entire opening of the frame, and then apply a coat of linseed to help the new putty adhere better.
When the frame is complete and you are ready to measure it for the new window pane. Then buy it from a home improvement store or other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.
It's much easier than you think to set up windows that are new. However, it is important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and a long-lasting replacement pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any old paint or wood gunk from the frame's opening. Then sand the wood down to the bare wood in order to strengthen the seal.
Use the edge of the putty knife while putting in the new pane to lightly place it against the wood frame. Then, press glazier's facets into the frame about every six inches to hold the new window securely in place.
When the frame is 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. Maintaining window repair Peterborough in good condition and working properly will extend their useful lives and improve the efficiency of your home's energy usage. If your windows are older or not in great shape then you might prefer replacing your windows completely. If you choose to go this route, we suggest choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that will lower your utility bills. The kind of window you pick will also affect the total cost of your project.