A Productive Rant About Glass Window Repair

Glass Window Repair
Professional window repair men are able to maneuver large panes of tempered glass from a high point above the ground. They work under extreme weather conditions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
Wearing protective clothing, remove the glazing points made of metal and all glazing putty with an utility knife. A heat gun may help soften the old glue and speed up removal.
Replacement
If a window pane breaks, it could be tempting to try and repair the glass rather than replace it. However, replacing windows is often more cost-effective, and can also help prevent other problems that could affect your home's energy efficiency. You should also take into consideration the kind of glass that is damaged to determine if it is an interim fix or if you will require an option that is more permanent.
To fix a broken window, remove the frame or sash and place it flat on your work surface. Wearing eye protection, gently wiggle the window's pane and pull out any remaining shards. Utilize a utility blade to cut off the glazing compound, as well as the glazing points that keep the window in place. Keep an eye on the location of these components to ensure that they can be reinstalled later.
After removing the frame and sash, you can begin preparing to replace the glass. Be sure to check that the opening of the frame is of the correct size for the replacement window. Take measurements both ways across the opening, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement in order to leave the expansion and contraction of the frame and glass. After that, you can purchase double-strength glasses cut to these exact dimensions. It is also a good idea to purchase enough new glazier's glazier's pointing or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the window pane.
If the manufacturer is responsible you should contact them and make an claim. After the new glass has been installed it is essential to cover it with a thin layer of glaziers compound. After letting the compound dry, you can paint it to match the frame of the window.
If you have a crack that is more than an inch, cutting the crack with the edge of a blade just over the crack will help prevent it from spreading any further. This method isn't infallible, but it will slow the growth of the crack down to a manageable level until you are able to take more permanent measures.
Repair
Professional window installers are equipped with the proper tools and know how to handle various types of glass. They know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so they are less likely than other people to leave behind pieces of glass that could harm family members or pets. They're also familiar with different window types and may be able to spot problems that aren't obvious to the uninitiated homeowner.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to starting the process of repairing cracked glass. Even a small break can cause shards to fly off, creating a risk for anyone in or around the home. It is important to determine the cause of the crack, so that you can prevent future problems.
Make a two-part mix of epoxy. These are usually 50/50 mix of hardener and resin, and they must be mixed quickly. When the mixture is done apply it to the crack in the glass and allow it to dry. It will take just some minutes however it is important to do it quickly because the mixture is extremely thick and fast drying.
Once the epoxy is dried, you can take off any excess with a putty knife. Then, you'll need 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. Use a putty blade to smooth the compound around the edge of the window and match it with the frame of wood.
To make a more durable option think about using a plastic cover. You can cover the glass with masking tape or a strong-duty trash bag. This will stop the crack from spreading, and will also keep wind, water and bugs out.
You can come up with an interim solution in the event that you are unable to access the window in time. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant around the edge of the damaged glass. It won't seal the gap between the glass and the frame completely but it will hold the fracture until you are able to repair it.
Repainting
If your windows with glass are old, you may want to repaint them. This is an affordable alternative to replacing windows, and will give your home a new appearance. Make sure the window is clean prior to painting. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to remove oil smudges and other residues that could prevent paint from adhering. You should also wear rubber gloves while working on glass to prevent the transfer of your own oils onto the surface of the window. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. This will allow the paint to last longer and ensure that your windows appear even and smooth.
If you're planning to repaint your glass windows, ensure that you have all the right tools nearby. You'll require a brush or sponge, painter's tape, a ruler, toothpicks, as well as a few other tools like a rag or paper towel. You'll also need the paint and brushes you'll use for the project in your possession. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be patient, as it may take a while for the paint to fully dry.
If you're using solvent-based paint, also ensure that the room where you work is well-ventilated. This will decrease the chance of inhaling toxic chemicals, and also the paint will dry more quickly. It is also important to ensure you wear a mask that is protective for any spray paints you apply.
For older glass windows, you'll need to prepare the surface before painting. Use warm water and soap to thoroughly clean the glass window. Then, rub alcohol on any grease or oil residues that could interfere with the adhesion of the paint. Make sure the windows are completely dried before you begin to paint them.
If you have energy-efficient double-pane windows on your windows, it might be possible to submit an insurance claim for repair or replacement with the window company or the dealer who sold the windows. This is particularly true if the windows are still under warranty and you've had several problems with condensation or damaged glass.
Sealing
There are a variety of options to address the issue depending on regardless of whether you have an old double-pane glass with cracks in the seal or if you have an insulation unit (IGU) that has experienced fogging. The most costly option is to replace the insulated unit and frame, 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 fixing it by drilling a small hole through the bottom of the unit and filling the solution with anti-fog.
You can also close the gap between the window frame and the threshold or sill by using a felt strip vinyl v-strip, or a door sweep. Felt can be stapled, glued, or placed in place, but is not a great protection against moisture. Vinyl v-strip weather stripping is durable and easy to put in however, it is costly and is typically reserved for areas that are exposed to high abrasion. Door sweeps are cheap and can be nailed to the floor but they create virtually no barrier between the sill or threshold and dust, air and other debris.
To repair a damaged window seal make use of a putty blade to take off the caulk. Wearing eye protection and gloves take out the glazing point -- small fasteners with sharp pointed tips that secure the glass in the frame's recess. After removing the glazing points, clean the grooves and sand the wood smooth. Wipe off any sanding debris then seal the wood surface using a linseed oil-based paint or clear sealer.
Traditional glazing putty can be applied with the help of a putty blade or caulking gun, however a knife provides a better, more precise application and will provide a better seal. Make sure you choose a putty specifically designed for glass windows, as it has better adhesion and a longer life.
Apply a thin layer of putty along the inside edge of frame where it joins the glass. Slide the window into the frame, so that the drawn line on the glass lines up with the edge of the frame. Apply pressure to the glass to force the putty and glass into an elongated seal. Smooth the compound with a gloved finger and clean up any mistakenly applied caulk or drips that have escaped before it dries.