Why You Should Forget About Enhancing Your Glass Window Repair
Glass Window Repair
Repairing glass windows can be expensive, especially for large commercial windows in skyscrapers and high-rises. A quick fix can sometimes stabilize a damaged pane until a replacement is installed.
One solution is to make use of tape. It can prevent superficial cracks, like stress cracks, from becoming worse until you are able to put the new pane in place. Repairs made with epoxy provide a stronger seal and can make the crack appear like it was never there.
Repairing Cracked Glass
There are a few steps to the process of repairing broken glass. First, clean both the glass and the surrounding area with soapy water, and let them dry completely. Mix the two-part epoxy mix according to the instructions of the product in a room that is well ventilated. Once mixed apply it to the crack in the glass with a putty knife, pushing it into the crack. Let the epoxy dry, or cure, for the period recommended on the product packaging. Depending on the size the crack and how it was broken, this could take up to a week or two. If necessary, you can hold the glass pieces together during the curing time using lightweight clamps made for fragile materials.
While some cracks in window glass can be repaired with a simple fix at home but the majority require attention from a professional. A professional can make a new pane of glass look almost invisible, and can help you keep the value of your home or business. This kind of glass repair requires special training and tools.
A temporary fix is all you may require if your window isn't particularly valuable or you don't wish to spend the time and effort to find a permanent solution. The purpose of this fix is to stop the crack from advancing and keep it from impacting the structure of the glass or frame.
Begin by cutting a piece of plastic large enough to cover the glass crack. Tape it both sides and place it over the crack in the glass. This will create a barrier that will stop animals, dust or rain from entering through the crack in your glass.
Spread a small amount of glue using a woodstick or putty blade around the edges of the piece to be glued together. Be cautious not to use excessive glue, as the glass could expand and lose its structural strength. Once the glue is dry then press the two glass pieces together and apply pressure to the joint.
Repairing Chipped Glass
A stray piece of grass that flies against the window or a large glass of wine set on a glass-topped table, or even just the passage of time can result in cracks in the glass in your home. However, if you're quick to act you can repair damaged glass before it becomes worse.
Clean the crack and the surrounding area first. Get rid of any shards you can, and then wipe down the surface to remove dust or debris that could hinder the bonding process of epoxy. With a rag that has been dampened with mineral spirits or acetone, wipe down the surface to ensure that the adhesive is completely free of any contaminants.
Then you can move on to the repair. You can either attempt a temporary fix to prevent the crack from getting worse or work on an ongoing solution that will make the window look like new.
In the case of the second option, you'll require a special kind of glass glue that's specifically designed for this purpose. This glue can be purchased online or in your local hardware store. Mix the adhesive according to instructions on the packaging and then apply a thin layer of it on both surfaces that are joined by the crack. Apply the adhesive as evenly as is possible.
Once the glue is dry, you can reinstall the pane into the frame. Depending on the kind of window you have the bead molding could be attached with small nails. If this is the situation take care to remove any molding that's attached to the window in order for you to work with the damaged glass.
The molding will need to be re-nailed. Be careful not to hit the glass with your hammer because this could cause the crack to widen further. Use a power brad or nail set to avoid damaging new glass or the moulding.
If you have double- or triple paned windows, you will also need to replace the gas fills which improve their energy efficiency. If you're unable to do it yourself, you can contact an organization that offers glass restoration services.
Repairing Broken Glass
If the glass you have broken is the result of an impact or is simply the result of the passage of time and age, there are a few alternatives to repair it. If the shape of the pane remains visible and the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to reconnect the pieces and glue them together. This will prevent the crack from spreading and could save you money by not having to replace the entire window.
Before you begin, make sure that you have the proper materials. The majority of home improvement stores sell epoxy. It is recommended to look for a two part epoxy that comes in separate cylinders that contain resin and a hardener. Check the label for the directions and ratios Mix according to the instructions. Once the epoxy is mixed, it's important to work quickly. The epoxy will set quickly, so you should apply it to a single piece of broken glass.
Make sure the area is free of dust, fingerprints, and oil. This could weaken the bond between the epoxy and the glass. Use a paint scraper, old chisel, or an old hammer to remove any glazing or caulking points holding the pane in position. If necessary, employ a heating device to soften the putty.
After removing any remaining glass, clean the entire surface thoroughly with soap and clean water to get rid of any dirt or debris. If you're in need of to lightly sand the surface using 120-grit sandpaper. To clean the glass and remove any particles of grit, wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
If you can't fix the glass, you might require replacing it. If the crack is too wide or long, and if the glass is double-paned you might need to replace it.
You can make use of clear tape to hold small cracks together. repairing upvc windows isn't the most appealing solution, but will stop the crack from spreading. It will also give you some time to decide your next step.
Replacing Broken Glass
If your window is damaged beyond repair, you will have to replace it. This is expensive however it will stop water and cold air from entering through the opening. Before you begin, clear the work area and take out any blinds or curtains that are near the window. Cover the flooring with it with plastic or cloth. Based on the type of window you have, you might have to pull or pry out vinyl jamb liners or release springs on the bottom of a sliding window. It is recommended to have someone nearby to catch any large glass pieces that might break.
After removing the glass, you'll have to prepare the frame. Remove any trim that holds the window in place and also glazing putty and glazing points. These are tiny triangles of metal that pin the window to the wall. Make use of a putty blade, pliers, or screwdrivers to carefully pry these out making sure not to scratch the wood. Sand the wood and fill any bare spots with linseed oil or wood sealer.
If you want to fix it quickly you can use a strong adhesive specifically designed to hold windshields on cars. Many auto repair shops stock this adhesive, which will likely be less expensive than buying a new piece of glass. You can also make use of ducttape or masking tape, which has a strong hold. Tape isn't the best visually appealing option, but it will keep the crack from spreading and could be enough to ensure your safety until you can find a permanent solution.
If you're prepared to spend more time working on the project, then epoxy will be the best choice. Epoxy will provide your window with the best seal and will give it the cleanest appearance. If you follow the directions, and apply it correctly the cracks will be nearly invisible.
Clean the area around the cracked glass before applying epoxy. Mix the epoxy according the instructions, and apply it to the area that has cracked. Apply it using a putty blade. Let it dry prior to installing the replacement pane of glass.