Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window

Glazing can make a significant difference to the energy efficiency of your home. This is particularly important for older double-glazed Windows.

It is possible to replace the glazing points with the window in place, but it is much easier and quicker if you remove the glass and frame. This is also an excellent occasion to replace the rubber gaskets.

Broken Glass

Glass that is cracked isn't just ugly but can also let valuable heat and sunlight escape from your home. It's usually possible to repair a broken window without having to go through a full replacement.

Start by putting on protective gloves and safety goggles. You should also put a piece of tape in an "X" shape on the glass you intend to remove (duct or painter's tape work well). This prevents any shattered pieces from falling when you work, which can protect you from serious injury.

Cover a small scratch on your window glass using tape to keep bugs, water and wind out. One strip of tape should be enough to cover any cracks that are superficial however if you're concerned about the weather getting worse before you can replace your window, consider using a more durable plastic cover like a tarp, or a garbage bag, to hold the glass in place until you can find a permanent solution.

For cracks that aren't as shallow, try using a strong adhesive that is specifically designed for windows, like Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech glue is made to bond to glass and it dries crystal clear to give an ideal finish. Apply it to the crack in the glass, and let it dry completely before applying another layer.

Stress cracks are a different issue that can occur to your glass window. They're usually caused by significant changes in temperature and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if it's not repaired. To prevent stress cracks create a small arc with glass cutters near the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing, and may slow it down by a few days.

Take a look at 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 and also to make up for any imperfections in the frame or on the glass. After cutting the glass, apply glaziers' compound around the edges of the frame and glass. Once the compound is dry paint it to match the frame.

Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside

Condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows is typically an indication that the seal around the window unit has failed. This is a serious issue and could indicate that heat is lost from your home through the window.

Double glazing has been designed to prevent heat transfer between the two glass panes by sandwiching a layer of air or vacuum between them. This creates a airtight seal and keeps warm air from exiting the house. If the glass is colder or colder than the frame then condensation will accumulate on it, which can damage the window. If you notice condensation on your double-glazed window and you are unable to resolve it by opening the windows with extractor fans, using dehumidifiers, or by trickle venting, then you may need to contact a professional.

Condensation on the outside of double-glazed windows is rare, but it can occur when the seal has begun to break down between the glass and the frame. This is more frequent in winter, when the temperature is lower, making it easier for condensation to form. This is due to an issue with the spacer between the frame and the window. The spacer is filled with desiccant which is highly absorbent and absorbs any excess moisture.

The issue with this is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it begins to break down and moisture will begin to leak through the gap between the glass units. This can lead to condensation and water in the gap, and can be very difficult to get rid of.

The positive side is that many trustworthy window manufacturers will provide warranties on their products. They will replace the window replacement unit and glass when it's damaged by condensation. Make sure to report any issues as soon as possible to the window manufacturer so that the condensation can be repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.

Shattering Window Glass

A cracked window pane isn't just a cosmetic issue, it could also be a security risk, especially if the crack has been expanding. It's best to have it fixed as quickly as you can. There are a variety of ways to go about it with glass adhesives, for instance, using ones designed for vehicle windows and can be bought on the internet or at a variety of auto repair shops. You can also make use of a glass compound designed for home use that can be found at a variety of hardware or home improvement stores.

Before beginning any work, wear thick cut-proof gloves and safety glasses. Then, sweep the area to remove large shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will stop them from causing injury to yourself or a glass repair professional in the future.

It's a good idea work from a ladder, instead of laying on the floor. This will make it easier to reach all parts of the frame and ensure that you are safe from falling glass. It's also an excellent idea to clean the rabbet before proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame that is where glass is likely to go. Wipe it down and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet, which will allow the new putty to stick to the frame securely.

After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet in place, it's time to plan the replacement of the broken pane. Measure 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 steel triangles that hold the glass in place.

With the window sash removed and the pry-bar flat, use it to gently pull the sash away from the moulding of wood. You may have to scrape old glazing off using a utility knife or chisel. Then you can use the heating gun to warm any putty that won't easily fall off. This will make it much easier to peel it off.

After the frame is removed from the molding, gently press the new glass into its place. Then, with a putty knife or glazier's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth the edges. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.

Replacement Window Glass

Wear eye protection and gloves when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape off the area surrounding the broken window to stop it from shattering again in a different location when you take it off.

Begin by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame using a knife. Clean the entire frame opening and then apply a coat of linseed to help the new putty adhere better.

Once the frame is constructed, take measurements to determine the size of the new windowpane. Then purchase it at a home improvement store or other retailer. Make sure you order the pane at least 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement to allow for an ideal fit.

It's easier than you think to install a new window. However, it is crucial to follow the directions given by the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and a long-lasting replacement pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any old paint or gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood until it is the surface of the wood to improve the seal.

When putting the new pane in place, use the point of your putty knife and gently lay the new window against the wood frame. Put glazier's tips in the frame every six inches. This will keep the new pane firmly in place.

When the frame is cure, paint the joint with a few coats of paint that match the rest of the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining your windows in good shape and ensuring they function properly will increase their life expectancy and improve the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are older or not in great shape, you may prefer a full window replacement. If you choose this option, we suggest selecting a high-quality insulated window to reduce your utility costs. The type of window you choose will also impact the overall cost of your project.