Glazing can make a significant difference to the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true in older double-glazed windows.
While it is possible to replace glazing points while the window is in position, it is quicker and easier if the glass and frame are removed. This is also a great opportunity to change the gaskets made of rubber.
Broken Glass
Windows that are cracked aren't just unattractive, but also let valuable heat and sunshine to escape your home. It's possible to fix damaged glass without replacing the entire window.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. Also, you should put an X-shaped piece of tape an "X" shape on the glass you plan to remove (duct or painter's tap works well). This will stop any broken pieces from falling when you work, which can keep you from serious injuries.
Cover a small crack in your window glass with tape to keep water, insects, and wind out. One strip of tape is sufficient for cracks with a superficial appearance however if you're concerned about the weather becoming worse before you can replace your window, consider using an extra-strong plastic cover such as a tarp or a trash bag, to keep the glass in place until you get a permanent fix.
Make sure you use a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a good choice. This high-tech glue is made to adhere to glass and dries crystal clear for an ideal finish. Apply it to the crack and allow it dry completely 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 they are not fixed. To avoid stress fractures, use a glass cutter to cut a small circle close to the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing, and can reduce the size by a day or so.
Measure the frame of the broken window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly bigger than the opening in order to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to account for any imperfections that may occur on the frame or on the glass. After cutting the glass, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of the frame and glass. After the compound has dried paint it in a manner that matches the frame.
Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows
The appearance of condensation on the inside of double glazed windows usually indicates that the seal has failed somewhere along the window unit. This is a serious problem and 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 of air or vacuum between them. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air from exiting the home. If the glass is cooler than the frame, condensation could develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you've got condensation on your double glazed window and you cannot resolve it by opening the windows, using extractor fans, using dehumidifiers or trickle venting, then you may require the help of a professional.
It's much rarer for condensation to appear on the outside of double glazed windows, however it can occur in the event that the seal between the glass and the window frame has started to deteriorate. This is more prevalent in winter when the temperature is lower, making it more likely for condensation to form. The most likely cause is a fault in the spacer used between the window and the frame. This spacer often contains desiccant that is highly absorptive and can absorb excess moisture.
This can lead to water leaking through the gap after the desiccant is saturated. This could lead to condensation and water in the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.
The good news is that the majority of reputable window companies will offer a warranty on their products and should replace the window unit and glass in the event of damage caused by condensation. Make sure to report any issues as soon as you can to your window installer so that the condensation is repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just a cosmetic problem, it could present a security risk particularly if the crack is expanding. It is recommended to get it fixed as soon as possible. Glass adhesives can be used for window glass in your vehicle that you can buy on the internet or at many auto repair shops. You can also make use of a glazing compound formulated for home use that can be found in a lot of hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on thick gloves and safety goggles prior to start any task. The area should be swept to remove any large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will stop 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 parts of the frame more easily and protect yourself from glass falling. It is also recommended to wash the rabbet prior to starting to the area around the perimeter of the window frame where the glass will go. Clean it off and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick to the frame securely.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet is ready, it's time to plan the replacement of the damaged pane. Find the height and width of the opening in both directions, then order the double-strength piece of glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll also need 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 pull the sash free of the wood moulding. It is possible to scrape old glazing putty off using a utility blade or chisel. Then you can use the heating gun to warm any putty that won't easily be removed. This will make it easier to remove.
After the frame is removed from the moulding and the frame is pressed gently into the new glass into its place. Fill in the gaps with either a glazier's tipped or a knife. After the putty dries, paint it to match 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 damaged pane of glass. Tape the area around the window to stop it from breaking again when you remove it.
Begin by removing the old glaze compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the sash frame using a utility knife. Clean the entire opening of the frame and then apply a coat linseed to make sure the new glue sticks better.
Once the frame is prepared, measure it to determine the size of a new windowpane. Then, you can purchase it at an home improvement store or another retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than you measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.
Installing the new window is simpler than it sounds, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure right fit and long life span for your new pane. Use a wire brush to rid the frame of old paint or wood gunk. then sand it down to bare wood, which will enhance the seal between the frame and sash.
When you are putting the new window in place, use the tip of your putty knife to lightly lay the new window against the frame made of wood. Then, press glazier's facets into the frame about every six inches to keep the new window securely in place.
After the frame has cured, paint the new joint several times until it matches the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining double glazing repair in good condition, and functioning correctly will prolong their useful lives and boost the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It is possible to replace your windows if they are older or in poor condition. If you decide to go with this option, we recommend choosing a high-quality insulated windows to lower your energy costs. The type of window you select will also impact the total cost of your project.
