A Provocative Rant About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair
Professional window repairmen work up above the ground, navigating huge glass panes. They follow strict safety protocols and often work under extreme weather conditions.
While wearing protective clothing, remove all glaze putty and glazing points using a knife. A heat gun can to soften the old putty and make it easier to remove.
Replacement
It's tempting to repair the window glass instead of replacing it when a pane breaks. It is more cost-effective to replace windows and it can also help to avoid other issues in the efficiency of your home. Examine the type of broken glass to determine whether it's a temporary fix, or if a long-term solution is needed.
The first step to repair damaged windows is to take off the frame, or sash, and lay it flat on a work table. While wearing eye protection, carefully move around and pull out any remaining shards in the window pane. Utilize a utility blade to scrape off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep track of the components and their location to ensure they are reinstalled.
After the frame and sash are removed and the frame is removed, you can begin preparation to install new glass. Before doing this ensure that the opening in the frame is designed for the replacement window. To allow for the expansion of the frame and glass and contraction, measure both directions across the opening and subtract 1/8 inch. Then, buy double-strength glasses that are cut to these exact dimensions. It is recommended also to purchase enough glazier's clips or points to install every 6 inches around the window pane.
Based on the window's warranty it could be covered by the manufacturer in which case you must contact them to file an claim. After the new glass has been installed, it must be covered with a thin coating of glazier's compound. After drying the compound then you can paint it to match the rest of the frame.
If you have a crack that extends more than an inch, cutting the crack with a razor blade just beyond the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't completely foolproof, but it could slow the development of the crack to a manageable size until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window contractors know how to handle a variety of glass types, and they have the tools necessary to do a proper job. They also understand the best ways to dispose of garbage, which means they're less likely to leave scraps that are left behind, which could cause harm to pets or family members. They are also familiar with working with various types of windows and could be able spot problems that a home owner with no experience might not be able to notice.
Before beginning the process of repairing damaged window glass, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. A small crack can cause shards to fly off, posing a danger to anyone who lives in or around the home. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, since this could prevent future problems.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. They are usually made up of a 50/50 mix of hardener and resin. They must be mixed quickly. Once the mixture is prepared, apply it to the glass crack and allow it to dry. It should take only about a few minutes, but you must work quickly because the mixture is very thick and dries quickly.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess with a knife. Then, you'll have to clean the area around the crack of glass. If you don't do it correctly, the residue could cause further damage to the glass. After the glass has been cleaned, use a putty knife to smooth the compound along the edge of the window, and then match it to the frame made of wood.
You could consider using a plastic cover for a more robust option. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a sturdy trashbag. This will stop the crack from expanding, and will also keep out wind, water insects, water, and other debris.
You can create a temporary fix if you are unable to get to the window in time. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the edges of the broken glass. It won't close the gap between the frame and glass completely but it will hold the broken piece in place until you are able to repair it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you might need to paint them. This is a low-cost alternative to replacing your windows and will give your house a new appearance. Make sure that the surface is clean before painting. Use soap or rubbing alcohol and water to remove oil smudges, and other traces of dirt that can hinder paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to avoid transferring your own oils onto the glass surface. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will help the paint last longer, and ensure that your windows appear smooth and even.
If you're planning to paint your glass windows, make sure you have all the right tools in your arsenal. You'll require brushes or sponges, painter's tap, a ruler and toothpicks. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll use to complete the project. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to fully dry.
If you are using solvent-based paint, you should also ensure that the room in which you work is well-ventilated. This will decrease the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry faster. Use a mask that is protective when using spray paints.
You'll need to clean the glass window thoroughly with warm water and soap before you paint it. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, use rubbing alcohol on any oil or grease residues that might hinder the paint's adhesion. Make sure the windows are completely dry before you begin coating them.
If double glazed window repair are energy efficient dual pane windows, you might be able to file a claim with the window manufacturer or dealer who sold them to cover any repair or replacement costs. This is particularly the case if you've experienced multiple problems with condensation or broken glass and the windows are covered under warranty.
Sealing
Whether you have old double-pane windows with a broken seal or a newer version of insulated glass units (IGUs) that have experienced fogging or fog, there are many options to fix the issue. The most costly option is to replace the frame and insulated unit but it may be necessary if condensation or fog are causing energy loss. Other options include replacing the existing IGU with a single-pane, or repair it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also seal up the gap between a window frame and a threshold or sill using a felt strip, or vinyl v-strip. Felt can be stapled, glued or placed in place, but does not offer much protection against moisture. Vinyl weather stripping v-strip is durable and easy to put in however, it is costly and is generally reserved for areas that are exposed to abrasions that are high. Door sweeps are affordable and can be put into place, but they create little to no barrier between the threshold or sill and air, dust, and debris.
To repair a damaged window seal first, you must use a putty blade to scrape off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves, pry out the glazing point -- tiny fasteners with sharp, pointed tips that pin the glass to the frame's recess. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves, then sand the wood. Clean any sanding dust then seal the wooden surface with a linseed-oil-based paint or clear sealer.
A putty or caulking knife can be used to apply traditional glazing putty, however using a knife will give a more precise application, and a better seal. Choose a putty that is made specifically for glass windows as it will be more adhesive and long-lasting.
Apply a thin layer of putty on the inside of the frame where it meets with the glass. Slide the window into frame so that scribed line on glass lines up with edge of frame. Apply pressure on the glass to press the putty and create a tight seal. Smooth the compound using gloves and then remove any caulk or drips that were not applied correctly before it dries.