Window Glass Repairs
Condensation between window panes can cause damage to the structure and seal of double-pane windows. There are several temporary solutions you can think about as a building owner or homeowner facing this issue.
Take measurements of the height and width of the opening in the frame. Subtract 1/8-inch from each measurement to order glass panes that are slightly undersized, which will make it easier to install and provide room for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Cracks
A pebble thrown from your lawnmowers hitting the window, a favourite vase that is tipped over by your cat, or a abrupt change in the weather could all cause cracks in your windows. Cracks like this can be repaired at home if you're willing do a bit of work. If the crack is larger than an inch, or if you have a single-paned windows, or a double-paned window with cracks in both panes, then it is best to consult an expert.
A window that is cracked and only small or near the edge of the frame could be fixed by putting a strip of clear packing tape on each side of the crack. This will stop the crack from expanding and seal the crack to the exterior and keep out the bugs, rain, wind and other debris. Keep in mind that this fix is temporary as cracks in glass typically develop over time.
Use a two-part epoxy for larger cracks. First, you must thoroughly clean the affected area and then remove all pieces of broken glass. Mix the epoxy in an area that is well ventilated on a piece of paper plate. The mix is usually a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. However, you must adhere to the instructions for the product you are using. The epoxy will thicken quickly after mixing and must be applied immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it in the desired location using your putty knife. Allow it to dry for 5 minutes.
Clear nail polish is a different option for crack repair at home. Similar to super glue the nail polish will fill in and bond the cracks together, preventing them from spreading. Make sure you allow the nail polish to fully dry, as cleaning or washing the area may cause it to come off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill in any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is essential, especially for windows that are beginning to age. These gaps could allow water and other elements to enter the home.
Leaks
Whether it's from a wayward baseball or a badly planned furniture move in the home, accidents at indoors are among the main causes of cracked glass. Outside events, like strong winds, could cause the glass to blow out of its frame. Caulking is a method to repair cracks in glass. This method of repair can be achieved using silicone or polysulfide, depending on the type of material and the type used to construct the frame.
This window glass repair is best done when the weather is warm and dry. This will allow you to apply the sealant in a dry setting and give it time to set before exposing it to rain. Before beginning the caulking process, be sure to examine the window from outside and inside to determine where the leak is coming from. Verify that the weep holes on the frame are free of any debris or insect corpses. This will prevent water from leaking through.
If you notice evidence of water trails that indicate the window is leaking and you want to fix it, use a prybar to remove any existing trim to get a better view of the connection between the frame and sash area. If you notice decay, it's going to require filling with wood filler before caulking is applied. After cleaning and sanding the surface, caulking is applied. It should dry over night.
A structural leak is caused by a damaged or decayed window frame. It's more difficult to spot, because it isn't always directly beneath the window. If you notice damp patches around the frame of the window it's likely that there's a gap in the wall allowing water to get in and pool up to below the studs.
In this instance it's recommended that an expert look into the situation and recommend the best plan of action. If the problem is severe it is recommended to replace the entire window. This will improve the efficiency of your home.
Broken Panes
It is recommended to call a professional if your window glass breaks into shards due to an extreme storm or baseball thrown at you by your children. While replacing one pane of glass in a smaller window is relatively simple for most DIYers double-pane windows need special tools and are best left to the professionals.
When a double-pane window breaks, it creates an energy inefficient gap. To stop cold air, water and critters from making a way into your home and causing your utility bills, you should call a window repair professional to replace the entire unit, not just the broken piece of glass.
The first step to repairing double-paned windows is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing eye protection and gloves make sure you break the glass shards into smaller pieces. After you've removed the glass and putty knife to scrape off the glazing compound as well as glazing points. This can be messy, but is necessary to ensure that the new glass is properly positioned within the frame.
Once the bare wood is exposed, use a scraper to smooth it. If necessary a chisel could be used to loosen any moldings made of wood that are too tight or stuck on the window frame. To prevent mold and rot make sure to seal the wood using linseed or clear caulk for windows.
While you can install a single windowpane in a wooden frame with some practice, double-glazed windows need the expertise of professionals to avoid problems. A professional must produce the double-glazed windows, which are a different size than one pane, to ensure that they fit properly and that there are no gaps or uneven joints.
Homeowners usually decide to replace their windows when they observe condensation or moisture in the windowpanes, a crack which is growing rapidly and causing higher energy bills in the summer and winter months or restrictions on historic windows. Window glass replacement is an affordable alternative if you're looking to improve the look of your home or switch to energy-efficient windows.
Replacement
Many homeowners opt to replace windows when it's broken or cracked, or when they have single-pane windows that are old and outdated. This can be a costly project, but can also increase energy-efficiency and reduce noise levels in a home. To ensure that the work is done right, it is best to employ a professional to install your new windows. A professional will be familiar with the various types of glasses and select the best one for your home. They will also know how to install it correctly which will save you money in the long run.
Tape the crack with packing tape or masking tape, stretching the tape along both sides of the fracture. This will prevent the crack from spreading while you work to repair it. Then, you can apply clear nail polish to the crack to help hold it together and seal it from the elements. You can apply up to three layers, and let each layer dry completely between applications.
You can use a utility knife to take off old glazing putty. It is also necessary to remove any clips or nails used to hold the pane. After removing the old pane you'll need to scrub the edges and frame of the glass. This is to ensure that no shards of glass are left behind. Then, you can re-install the window pane. If there is a gap you can use silicone caulk to close it and help the new glass adhere to the frame.
It is possible to follow the same process for a larger, but more difficult window. You will need to use a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. It is also possible to take out decorative elements such as muntins or mullions that separate the glass panes for aesthetic reasons. It is recommended to work with a window repair or replacement expert to do this type of work, because they'll be able tackle these issues safely and quickly. They will also know how to remove waste safely, so that it doesn't fall onto pets or family members.