Glazing can have a major impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly true for older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to change the glazing points by putting the window in place, but it is easier and quicker to remove the frame and glass. It is a good time to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but it also allows valuable sunlight and heat escape from your home. It's usually possible to fix a broken window without the need for full replacement.
Begin by putting on your protective gloves and safety glasses. 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 work well). This prevents any shattered pieces from falling when you work, which could keep you from serious injuries.
Cover a small scratch on your window with tape to keep water, insects and wind from getting. If the crack is only superficial and only a single strip tape will suffice. However should the weather be expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you might prefer a sturdy plastic cover, such as a trash bag or tarp.
For cracks that aren't as shallow try using a tough adhesive that is specifically designed for windows, such as 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 may also develop stress cracks. They're typically caused by dramatic temperature fluctuations, and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if it's not treated. To prevent stress fractures, use a glass cutter to cut a small arc near the crack. This can prevent the crack from expanding and reducing the severity for some days.
Examine the frame of the damaged window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly smaller than the opening to allow expansion and contraction and to make up for any imperfections in the glass or frame. Once you've cut your new glass to size, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. Once the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside
Condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows is usually an indication that a seal along the window unit has failed. This is a major issue and could indicate that heat is being lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing is designed to prevent heat transfer between two panes by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates an airtight seal and keeps warm air from exiting the home. If the glass is cold or colder than the surrounding frame then condensation will form on it, which can damage the window. If you're unable to remove condensation from windows with double glazing by opening windows, using extractors, using dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, then you might require the assistance of professional help.
It's much rarer to see condensation appear on the exterior of double-glazed windows, however it can happen when the seal between the glass and frame has started to deteriorate. It is more common in winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier for condensation to form. This is due to an issue with the spacer between the frame and the window. The spacer is often filled with desiccant that is highly absorptive and can absorb excess moisture.
This could result in water leaking through the gap after the desiccant has been saturated. This can lead to water and condensation in the gap, and can be very difficult to get rid of.
The good news is that the majority of reliable window companies will provide a warranty on their products. They will replace the window unit and glass if it has been damaged by condensation. It's essential to notify your window installer when you notice them, so that the condensation can be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the window unit and the surrounding frame.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just an aesthetic issue, it could also be a security risk, particularly if the crack is spreading. It's best to have it fixed as quickly as possible. Glass adhesives can be used for vehicle windows that can be purchased on the internet or at many auto maintenance shops. Alternately, you can make use of a glazing compound formulated for use in homes that can be found at a variety of hardware or home improvement stores.
Before starting any work, put on thick cut-proof gloves and safety glasses. You can then sweep the area to eliminate large pieces of shards. Also, you should clean up any chips that fell. This will prevent them from causing injury to you or a glass repair worker later on.
It's a good idea to work on a ladder instead of laying on the floor. This will allow you to reach all the areas of the frame and will protect you from falling glass. Before you start it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area where glass is placed. Apply a coat linseed to the rabbet and wipe it down. This will aid in helping the putty adhere.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet in place, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the broken pane. Purchase a piece of double strength glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need to purchase glass points, which are metal triangles that keep the glass in the right place.
With the window sash off the way, carefully pry it away from the wood molding with a straight pry bar. You may have scrape off old glazing using a utility knife or chisel. Then you can use the heat gun to warm any putty that doesn't come off. This will make it easier to peel off.
When the frame is out from the molding and the frame is firmly pressed, gently press the glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with the glazier's tip or a putty knife. After the putty has dried, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping the paint slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a damaged window, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from glass shatters. Tape off the area around the broken window to stop it from breaking again in a different spot when you take it off.
Start by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the sash frame using a utility knife. Then, clean the frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil in order to help the new stick stick stick to it better.
Once the frame is in place and you are ready to measure it for a new window pane and buy it from a home improvement store or other retailer. Make sure to order the pane one-sixth inch shorter in each direction than your measurement to allow for a snug fit.
Installing the new window is much easier than you think, but ensure you follow the manufacturer's directions to ensure correct fit and a long life span for your new pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any old paint or wood gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood until it is the surface of the wood to increase the seal.
When you're putting the new pane in place, use the tip of your putty knife to lightly bed the new window against the wood frame. Press glazier's tips into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new pane securely in the frame.
After the frame has cured, paint the new joint several times to match the frame. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and operating well will prolong their lifespan and increase your home's energy efficiency. If your windows are outdated or in poor condition it is possible that you would prefer the complete replacement of your windows. If you decide to go down this route, we recommend choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that can reduce the cost of your utility costs. The kind of window you pick will also influence the total cost of your project.
