Window Glass Repairs
Condensation can cause damage to the seal of your double-pane window and structural integrity. There are a variety of temporary solutions that you can consider as a building owner or homeowner facing this issue.
Find the height and width of the opening for the frame. 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 contracting.
Cracks
Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble thrown by your lawnmowers or a vase that has been tipped over by a pet, or a sudden change in weather. These cracks can usually be repaired at home if you're willing to do a bit of work. However, if the crack is larger than an inch, a single-pane window, or double-paned glass with holes in both panes, it's best to contact an expert to fix the damage.
A window that's cracked but small or located at the edge of the frame may be repaired by placing the clear packing tape on either side of the crack. This will prevent the crack from expanding and seal the gap to the exterior, keeping out the wind, rain, bugs and other debris. Remember that this fix is temporary since cracks in glass usually spread over time.
For larger cracks in the glass you can make use of a two-part epoxy to fill the cracks. First, you need to thoroughly clean the area affected and take out the broken glass pieces. Then, mix the epoxy in a well-ventilated space on cardboard or a paper plate. The mixture is typically made up of a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, but you should adhere to the directions for the product you're using. The epoxy will thicken quickly after mixing and must be applied immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it in place with your putty knives. Allow it to dry for five minutes.
Another DIY solution to fix cracks is to use clear nail polish. The nail polish works in a similar way to super glue. It will fill and seal the cracks, preventing their spread. Let the nail polish completely dry prior to washing or cleaning. This could cause the nail polish to fall off. You can also employ a caulking gun to fill any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is essential, especially for older windows that are getting old. These gaps could let water and other elements to enter the home.
Leaks
Whether it's from a wayward baseball or a badly planned furniture move, indoor accidents are among the most frequent causes of cracked window glass. The weather, including strong winds, can also cause the pane to be blown out of its frame. Fortunately, cracks in window glass are easily repaired using caulking. This repair technique can be achieved using polysulfide or silicon caulking according to the type of window glass and the materials used in making the frame.
The ideal time to complete this repair to your window is when the conditions are dry and warm. This will allow you to apply the sealant in a dry area and allow it to cure before being exposed to rain. Before you begin the caulking process, you need to examine the window both outside and inside to determine where the leak is coming from. Verify that the weep holes in the frame are free of debris and insects' corpses. This will prevent the water from getting in.
If you see the appearance of a water trail, it is a sign that the window is leaky. Make use of a pry-bar to remove the trim so that you can get a closer look at the joint. If you notice rot, it will need to be replaced with a wood filler prior to applying the caulking. Afterward, the surface is cleaned and sanded before applying the caulking. The caulking should be allowed to dry overnight.
Another type of leak is a structural one that is usually caused by the deterioration of a wall or around the window. This is harder to spot since it's not always directly beneath the window. If you notice damp patches on the frame of the window, it is likely that there's a gap in the wall that allows water to get in and pool up to below the studs.
In this case, it's best to have an expert assess the situation and suggest the best plan of action. If the problem is severe then it's recommended to replace the entire window. This will increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Broken Panes
You should contact an expert if your window glass breaks into shards because of the force of a storm or a baseball that was thrown at you by your children. While replacing one pane of glass in a small window is relatively simple 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 inefficient gap. It is recommended to contact a professional window repair service to replace the entire unit not just the broken glass, to stop cold air and water from entering your home and causing a rise in the cost of your utility bills.
The first step to repair a double-paned window is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing eye protection and gloves, carefully break up the shards of glass into smaller pieces. After you have removed the glass, use the putty blade to scrape off the glazing compound and glazing tips. This process can be messy, but it's essential to make sure that your new glass is positioned correctly in the window frame.
Make use of a scraper once the wood is exposed to smooth it. If necessary a chisel may be used to sever any areas of wood molding that aren't tight enough or stuck to the frame of the window. Finally clean the wood with fine-grit sandpaper, then seal it with linseed oil or clear window caulk to prevent rot or mold.
While you can fit one windowpane inside a wooden frame with a little practice, double-glazed windows need the help of an expert to avoid any issues. A professional should design the double-glazed windows, which are a different size than a single pane, to ensure that they fit correctly and that there aren't gaps or uneven joints.
Homeowners can decide to replace window glass when they see condensation or moisture in the window panes. They may also consider doing so in the event that their energy bills are higher in the summer or winter months or if there are rules regarding the use of old windows. Window glass replacement can also be a reasonable option when you're thinking about improving the look of your home or upgrading to more energy-efficient windows.
Replacement
Most homeowners replace their windows in the event of cracks or broken, or if their single-paned windows have become old and outdated. It can be a costly project, but could also improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels within a home. It is recommended to contact an expert to install your new windows in order to be sure that the work is done correctly. A professional will be knowledgeable about the various types of glass available and will choose the best one for your home. They also know the best method of installing it, which could help you save money in the long run.
Tape the crack using masking or packing tape, and then extend the tape along both sides of the break. This will prevent the crack from expanding as you work on repairing it. Then, you can apply clear nail varnish to the crack to seal it and protect it from the elements. You can do up to three coats of nail polish, letting it completely dry between each application.
You can use a utility knife to remove the old glazing putty from the glass frame and you'll likely need to chip away any nails or clips that were used to hold the pane in the frame. After you have removed the old pane clean the edges of the frame and glass to make sure that there are no pieces of glass left. Then, you can put back the window pane. If there is a gap, you can use some silicone caulk to close it and help the new glass adhere to the frame.
The same process can be used for a larger window, though it might be more difficult. You'll need a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. It is also possible to take out decorative elements such as muntins and mullions, which divide the glass panes due to aesthetic reasons. It is recommended to employ an expert window repair or replacement expert to do this type of work, since they'll be able tackle these issues safely and efficiently. They are also familiar with the proper methods for removing debris, which could stop it from falling on family members or pets.