Window Glass Repairs
Condensation can cause damage to the seal on your double-pane windows and structural integrity. There are several temporary solutions you can think about as homeowner or building owner with this problem.
Find the height and width of the frame opening. If you want to order a slightly smaller glass pane subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement. This will facilitate the installation and allow for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Cracks
A pebble flung from your lawnmowers hitting the window, a favorite vase being tipped over by a cat, or a abrupt change in the weather can cause cracks in your windows. Generally speaking, these kinds of cracks can be fixed at home as long as you're willing to invest some time. However, if the crack is more than an inch, a single-pane window or double-paned window with a hole through both panes, you should contact an expert to fix the damage.
A window that is cracked and only small or near the edge of the frame may be fixed by placing 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 exterior and keep out the bugs, rain, wind and debris. Keep in mind that this fix is only temporary since cracks in glass typically develop over time.
For larger cracks in the glass, you can use a two-part epoxy to fill the crack. First, you must thoroughly clean the area affected and remove all pieces of broken glass. Then, mix the epoxy in a well-ventilated space on cardboard or a paper plate. The mixture is typically a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin. However, it is important to always follow the instructions on the specific product. When the mixture is mixed, it becomes very thick and must be utilized immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it in the desired location using your putty knife. Allow to dry for 5 minutes.
Clear nail polish is another option for crack repair at home. The nail polish functions similarly to super glue. It will fill and bond the cracks, stopping their spread. Make sure to let the nail polish fully dry, as cleaning or washing the area may cause it to come off. You can also make use of a caulking gun fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the glass. This is crucial, particularly for windows that are beginning to age. These gaps could allow water and other elements to enter the home.
Leaks
Accidents that happen indoors, like an unintentional baseball being lost or a furniture move that was not well planned, are the most common cause of cracked glass. Additionally, outdoor events like strong winds can knock the glass off its frame. Fortunately cracks in window glass are easily repaired with caulking. This method of repair can be done using either polysulfide or silicone, based on the type and materials used to build the frame.
This repair to the window glass is best done when the weather is warm and dry. This permits you to apply the caulking while it is dry and gives it ample time to cure before being exposed to rain. It is essential to look at the window from the outside and inside to identify the location of the leak. It is also important to ensure that weep holes are clear of obstructions like insect carcasses and other debris since this will help stop water from getting into the bottom of the frame.
If you find a water trail that's indicating the window is leaky and you want to fix it, use a prybar to remove any trim to get a better look at the connection between the frame and the sash. If you see signs of rot then it's time to be replaced by a wood filler before applying the caulking. Then, the surface is sanded and cleaned before applying the caulking, which is then left to dry for a night.
A structural leak is caused by a damaged or rotten window frame. It's more difficult to spot, because it isn't always directly below the window. If you notice damp patches on the window frame, it is likely that there's an opening in the wall allowing water to enter and collect either above or below the studs.
In this case, it's best to have a professional assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. If the problem is significant, then it's probably an ideal idea to replace the window entirely that will let you enjoy greater energy efficiency in your home.
Broken Panes
If a bad storm, a baseball thrown by the kids, or a similar incident results in your window glass breaking into shards, you need to call a professional. While replacing a single pane of glass in a small window is relatively easy for most DIYers, double-pane windows require special tools and are best left to the pros.
When a double-pane window breaks, it creates an energy inefficient gap. To stop the cold air, water, and critters from making a way into your home and adding to your bill for utility, call a window repair professional to replace the entire unit rather than just the broken glass.
The first step to repair double-paned windows is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing eye protection, gloves and other protective clothing, you can break the glass shards into smaller pieces. After window repairs have removed the glass, employ the putty blade to scrape off the glazing compound and tips. This process can be messy, but it's important to make sure that your new glass will fit properly within the window frame.
After the wood is exposed then use a scraper to smooth it. If needed a chisel could be used to loosen any moldings made of wood that are too tight or stuck to the window frame. Finally, sand the wood with fine-grit sandpaper. Seal it with linseed oil or clear window caulk to prevent mold or rot.
Double-glazed windows require the help of a professional in order to avoid any issues. A professional will design and construct the double-glazed windows, which are a different size from a single pane, to ensure that they fit correctly and that there are no gaps or joints that are uneven.
Homeowners can decide to replace windows if they notice condensation or moisture in the window panes. They may also consider doing so when their energy bills are higher in winter or summer or if there are regulations regarding old windows. Window glass replacement can also be a reasonable option if you're considering improving the look of your home or upgrading to more energy-efficient windows.
Replacement
Many homeowners choose to replace window glass when it's cracked or broken or when they have single-pane windows that are outdated and dated. This is costly, but can also increase energy-efficiency and reduce noise levels within a home. It is recommended to hire an expert to install the new windows in order to ensure that the installation is completed properly. A professional is familiar with the various types of glass that are available and will select the right one for your home. They also know the proper method to install it, which will save you money in the end.
Tape the crack with packing tape or masking tape, stretching the tape along both sides of the break. This will prevent the crack from advancing while you work to repair it. You can then apply clear nail varnish to the crack in order to seal it and keep it protected from the elements. You can do up to three layers of nail polish, and let it dry thoroughly between each application.
You can use a utility knife to remove old glazing putty. It is also necessary to chip off any nails or clips used to secure the pane. Once you have removed the old pane, clean the edges of the frame and glass to make sure that there aren't any fragments left behind. Then, you can re-install the window pane. If there is a gap you can use some silicone caulk to fill it in and aid in helping the new glass adhere to the frame.
It is possible to follow the same procedure for a larger but more difficult window. You'll need a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. You may also have to remove decorative elements such as muntins and mullions, which divide the glass panes due to aesthetic reasons. It is recommended to hire a window repair or replacement professional for this type of job, as they will be able to tackle these issues safely and quickly. They will also know how to dispose of garbage safely, so it doesn't fall on pets or family members.