Glazing can have a significant impact on the efficiency of your home. This is particularly important for older double-glazed windows.
It is possible to replace glazing points with the window in place however it is much simpler and quicker if you remove the glass and frame. This is also an excellent occasion to replace the gaskets on the rubber.
Broken Glass
Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but it also allows valuable sunlight and heat escape from your home. Fortunately, it's often possible to repair a damaged window pane without the need for full replacement.
Wear safety goggles and gloves. You can also employ duct tape or a painter's taps to create an "X" on the glass that you intend to remove. This will prevent any broken pieces from falling while you work, which can save you from serious injury.
If you have a small crack in the glass of your window, cover it with tape to block the elements like wind, water and insects. If the crack is superficial just a single strip of tape will be enough. However should the weather be likely to get worse before you can replace the window, you might need a more durable plastic cover such as a trash bag or tarp.
For cracks that aren't as shallow try using a tough adhesive designed specifically for windows, such as Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is designed to attach to glass and then dry clear for a flawless finish. Apply it to the crack, and let it dry completely before applying another layer.
Stress cracks are a different issue that can occur to your glass window. They are usually caused by large changes in temperature, and can spread quickly across the entire glass window if it's not treated. To prevent stress cracks, score a small arc with glass cutters close to the crack. This will stop the crack from expanding and reducing the severity for several days.
Measure the frame of the damaged 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 compensate for any imperfections that may occur on the frame or on the glass. Once you've cut your glass to size apply glaziers' compounds around the edges of the frame and the glass. Once the compound dries, paint over it to match the rest of the frame.
Condensation on the Inside of Double Glazed Windows
Condensation inside double-glazed windows is usually an indication that the seal on 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 prevent heat transfer between two panes, by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. double glazing repair creates a seal that blocks warm air from venting. If the glass is colder than the frame, condensation will develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you've got condensation on your double glazed window that you are unable to eliminate it by opening the windows, by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers or trickle venting then you may require the help of an expert.
It's less likely for condensation to form on the outside of double-glazed windows, however it can occur in the event that the seal between the glass and the window frame is beginning to break down. This is more frequent in winter when the temperatures are lower and it's more likely for condensation to form. The main cause of this is a fault in the spacer used between the frame and the window. The spacer usually contains desiccant that is extremely absorbent and will soak up excess moisture.
The problem with this is that once the desiccant gets saturated, it begins to break down and then water can begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can cause condensation and water to build up in the gap, which is difficult to clean out.
Most reputable window companies offer a warranty and replace the glass and unit of a window if it is damaged by condensation. Inform any issues as quickly as possible to your window installer to ensure that the condensation is repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.
Shattering Window Glass
A cracked window pane isn't just a cosmetic problem, it could pose a security risk, especially if the crack is spreading. It's best to have it repaired as quickly as you can. There are a variety of ways to go about it by using glass adhesives made for windows of vehicles and can be bought through the internet or at numerous auto repair shops. You can also use a glazing compound for home use, which is available at most hardware and home improvement stores.
Put on your gloves with a thick layer of protection and safety goggles before you begin any work. The area should be swept to get rid of any large shards. You'll also want to vacuum up any chips that have fallen. This will stop them from cutting you or a glazing repair technician later on.
It's a good idea climb a ladder instead of standing on the ground. This will let you reach all the parts of the frame with ease and will protect you from glass falling. Before you begin it's important to clean the rabbet. This is the area that glass will be placed. Apply a coat of linseed to the rabbet and then wipe it clean. This will help the putty adhere.
After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet is ready, it's time to prepare for the replacement of the damaged pane. Measure the height and width of the opening in both directions Then, you can order the double-strength piece of glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in both directions. Also, you'll need to purchase glass points, which are made of metal triangles which hold the glass in the right place.
With the window sash off the way, carefully pull it away from the wood molding using a straight pry bar. You may have to scrape old glazing putty off with a utility blade or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to remove it.
When the frame is out from the molding then carefully press the glass in its place. Then, with the help of a putty knife or glazier's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth them out. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping the paint slightly.
Replacement Window Glass
Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection when replacing a damaged piece of glass. Tape off the area surrounding the broken window to stop it from breaking again in a different area when you take it off.
Utilize a utility blade to remove the old glazing compound from the wood frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). 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 ready and you are ready to make sure you measure it to get an entirely new window and 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 perfect fit.
Installing the new window is easier than you think, however be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure right fit and long-lasting life for your replacement pane. Make use of a wirebrush to clean any paint or wood gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood down to the wood's surface to strengthen the seal.
When putting the new pane in place, use the point of your putty knife and gently bed the new window against the frame made of wood. Then, press glazier's points into the frame every six inches to keep the new window firmly in place.
When the frame is cure, paint the new joint with several coats of paint to match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining your windows in good condition and working well will prolong their lives and improve your home's energy efficiency. You might want to replace your windows if they're old or in poor condition. If you choose to go this route, we recommend choosing an energy-efficient, high-quality window that will lower the cost of your utility costs. The type of window that you choose will also affect the overall cost of your project.
