Window Glass Repairs
Condensation can cause damage to the seal on your double-pane windows and structural integrity. There are several solutions you can think about as homeowner or owner of a building with this problem.
Take measurements of the height and width of the opening in the frame. If you want to order a slightly smaller glass pane, subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement. This will allow for a simpler installation and allow for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Cracks
A pebble that is thrown from your lawnmowers hitting the window, a beloved vase being tipped over by a cat, or a abrupt change in the weather could cause cracks to your windows. In general, these types of cracks can be fixed at home, provided you're willing to invest a little time. If the crack is more than an inch or you have a single-paned windows, or a double-paned window with a hole in both panes, it's best to contact a professional.
A window that's cracked but small or near the edge of the frame may be fixed by putting a strip of clear packing tape on either side of the crack. This will prevent the crack from spreading and seal the gap to the outside, keeping out the bugs, rain, wind and debris. This solution is only temporary, as glass cracks usually expand over time.
Use a two-part epoxy for larger cracks. First, thoroughly clean the area and remove any broken glass. Mix the epoxy in a place that is well ventilated on a piece or paper plate. The mix is usually a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. However, it is important to always follow the instructions on the product you are using. Once mixed, the epoxy becomes thick quickly and must be used immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it into place using your putty knives. Allow it to dry for 5 minutes.
Clear nail polish is a different option to repair cracks at home. The nail polish works in a similar way to super glue. It fills and seal the cracks, stopping them from spreading. Make sure you allow the nail polish to fully dry, as cleaning or washing the area may cause it to fall off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill in any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is crucial, particularly for older windows that are aging. These gaps can let water and other elements to enter the home.
Leaks
Whether it's from a wayward baseball or an unplanned furniture move or a mishap at home, indoor accidents are among the most common causes of cracked window glass. Outside events, like strong winds, can also cause the glass to blow out of its frame. Caulking is a method to repair cracks in glass. This method of repair can be done using either polysulfide or silicone, based on the type of material and the type used to build the frame.
The ideal time to complete this repair on your windows is when the weather is warm and dry. This will permit you to apply the sealant in a dry area and give it time to set before exposing it to rain. It is essential to look at the window from both outside and inside to determine the location of the leak. Verify that the weep holes on the frame are free of debris and insect corpses. This will stop the water from getting in.
If you spot a water trail that's indicating the window is leaky, use a pry bar to remove any existing trim to get a clear view of the joint between the frame and sash area. If you notice rot, it will require filling with wood filler prior to caulking is applied. After cleaning and sanding the surface, caulking is applied. It should dry overnight.
A structural leak is caused by a rotten or damaged window frame. It's more difficult to detect, as it's not always directly under the window. If you do notice damp patches on the walls in the vicinity of the frame, it's likely that there's an opening in the wall let water in and get into the window studs.
In this situation it is recommended to have an expert look into the situation and recommend a proper method of action. If the problem is severe then it's recommended to replace the entire window. This will improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Broken Panes
If a severe storm or a baseball thrown by your children, or another incident causes your window glass to breaking into shards, you need to call an expert. Most DIYers can repair one pane of glass in a small, narrow window. However replacing double-paned windows will require specific tools that should be left to experts.
If a double pane window breaks, an energy-inefficient gap is created. To prevent the cold air, water, and critters from making a way into your home and increasing your energy bills, seek out a window repair expert to replace the entire unit, not just the broken glass.
The first step to repairing double-paned windows is to remove old glass from the frame. Wearing gloves and eye protection make sure you break the shards of glass into pieces that can be manipulated. After you have removed the glass, make use of the putty knife to take off the glazing compound and tips. This can be a messy process but it's necessary to ensure that the new glass is positioned correctly within the frame.
Make use of a scraper once the wood is exposed to smooth it. If needed a chisel could be used to loosen any moldings made of wood that are too tight or glued to the window frame. Finally, sand the wood with fine-grit sandpaper. Seal it with linseed oil or clear window caulk to prevent the growth of mold or rot.
While you can install a single windowpane within wooden frames with a bit of practice, double-glazed windows require the expertise of professionals to avoid problems. Double-glazed windows differ in terms of size from single panes and must be designed by an expert to ensure they fit correctly.
Homeowners often choose to replace their window glass when they observe moisture or condensation between the windowpanes, a crack which is growing rapidly, higher energy bills in summer and winter or the need to comply with regulations for older windows. Window glass replacement is a cost-effective alternative if you're looking to improve the look of your home or switch to energy-efficient windows.
Replacement
Most homeowners replace window glass in the event of cracks, broken or if their single-paned windows are old and dated. This is expensive, but it could also improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels in the home. To ensure that the task is done properly, it is best to hire a professional to install your new windows. A professional is familiar with the different types of glass available and will select the right one for your home. They will also know how to install it properly, which can save you money in the end.
Tape the crack with masking or packing tape, stretching the tape on both sides of the break. This will prevent the crack from spreading while you repair it. After that you can apply clear nail polish to the area to hold it in place and protect it from the elements. You can apply up to three layers, and let each one completely dry between applications.
You can use a knife to take off the old glazing putty from the glass frame, and you'll probably need to chip away any nails or clips that were used to keep the pane in the frame. Once you have removed the old pane clean the edges of the glass and frame to ensure there are no pieces of glass left. You can then reinstall the window pane. Apply silicone caulk if there is a gap in order to allow the glass to adhere to the frame.
The same process can be used for windows that are larger, but it might be more difficult. You will need a ladder to reach second-story windows, and you could have to remove decorative features like mullions and muntins, which separate the glass panes to improve aesthetics. This type of work is best left to a professional window repair or replacement service who can deal with these problems quickly and safely. They will also know how to remove waste in a safe manner, so it doesn't fall on animals or family members.