Glazing can make a big difference in 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 place, it is much quicker and easier if the glass and frame are removed. It is a good time to replace the rubber seals.
Broken Glass
Cracked glass isn't just unsightly but it also allows valuable heat and sunlight escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a damaged window without the need for a complete replacement.
Begin by putting on protective gloves and safety glasses. You should also put a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass you intend to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will prevent any broken glass from falling on you while you work.
Cover a small crack on your window glass with tape to keep bugs, water, and wind out. One strip of tape should be enough for superficial cracks however if you're concerned about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, use a more durable plastic cover such as a tarp or a trash bag, to hold the glass in place until you can get a permanent fix.
Make sure you use a strong adhesive specifically designed for windows to repair cracks. double glazing repair is a good choice. This high-tech glue is designed to attach to glass and then dry clear to give a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack, and let it completely dry before applying a new layer.
Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are typically caused by extreme temperature fluctuations and can spread rapidly across the entire window if they are not repaired. To stop stress fractures from occurring that result from stress, use a glass cutting tool to score a small arc near the crack. This can prevent the crack from expanding and reducing the severity for a few 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 cover any imperfections in the frame or glass. After cutting the glass, apply glaziers compound around the edges of the frame and glass. After the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.
Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows is usually an indication that the seal along the window unit has failed. This is a serious problem because it could indicate that heat is lost from your home through the window.
Double glazing is designed to stop heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a airtight seal and prevents warm air from leaving the home. However, if the glass is colder or colder than the surrounding frame then condensation will build up on it, which can damage 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 by trickle venting, then you may require the help of a professional.
Condensation on the outside of double-glazed windows is rare However, it could happen if the seal has begun to deteriorate between the glass and the frame. It is more prevalent in winter, when the temperature is lower. This makes it easier to create condensation. This is caused by an issue with the spacer between the frame and the window. The spacer is often filled with desiccant that is extremely absorbent and will soak up excess moisture.
The issue with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it will start to break down, and eventually moisture can start to enter the gap between the glass units. This can lead to condensation and water in the gap and is very difficult to eliminate.
Most reputable window companies offer a warranty and replace the unit and glass of the window if it is damaged by condensation. Report any problems as soon as you can to your window installer so that the condensation can be repaired as fast as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just a visual issue, it could also be a security risk, especially if the crack has been expanding. It is recommended to get it repaired as soon as you can. There are several ways to do it by using glass adhesives designed for vehicle windows, which can be purchased on the internet or at a variety of auto maintenance stores. Alternately, you can make use of a glass compound designed for use in homes and can be purchased at a variety of hardware or home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety glasses before you begin any task. Clean the area thoroughly to get rid of any large shards. You should also vacuum any chips. This will stop them from cutting yourself or a glass repair person in the future.
It is best to stand on a ladder than on the ground. This will make it easier to reach all the areas of the frame, and will protect you from falling glass. Before you begin it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area where glass will be placed. Clean it off and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet. This will allow the new putty to stick securely.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet in place, it's time to get ready for the replacement of the broken pane. Purchase a piece of double strength glass that is one inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need to purchase glass points, which are metal triangles which hold the glass in the right place.
With the window sash removed and the pry-bar flat, use it to gently pull the sash off of the wood moulding. It is possible to scrape old glazing off using a utility knife or chisel. Then make use of the heat gun to warm up any putty that won't easily fall off. This will make it easier to peel off.
After the frame has been removed from the molding and the frame is pressed gently into the new glass into its place. Then, using a putty knife or glazier's point, fill the gaps around it and smooth them out. Once the putty has dried paint it to match the frame. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
If you're replacing a broken window pane, first wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from glass shards. Tape off the area around the broken window to prevent it from shattering again in a different area when you remove it.
Utilize a utility blade to scrape the old glazing compound from the frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Clean the frame opening and apply a coat of linseed oil to help the new putty stick to it better.
Once the frame is in place and you are ready to make sure you measure it to get the new window pane. Then purchase it from a home improvement store or another retailer. The panes should be 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.
Installing the new window is simpler than you think, but ensure you follow the manufacturer's directions to ensure the right fit and long life for your replacement pane. Use a wirebrush to remove any old paint or gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood to the surface of the wood to strengthen the seal.
When putting the new pane in place, use the point of your putty knife to gently bed the new window against the wood frame. Put glazier's tips in the frame every six inches. This will help hold the new pane securely in the frame.
Once the frame is cured, paint the new joint several times to match the frame. Let the paint dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Keeping windows looking good and operating properly will extend their useful lives and boost your home's energy efficiency. If your windows are older or not in great shape it is possible that you would be better off with the complete replacement of your windows. If you decide to go with this option, we recommend choosing a high-quality, insulated window to cut down on your energy bills. The type of window that you select will also impact the total cost of your project.
