How To Outsmart Your Boss On Glazing Repair Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window

Glazing can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially important in older double-glazed windows.

While it is possible to change the glazing points when the window is still in position, it is faster and simpler if the glass and frame are removed. This is also a great opportunity to replace the gaskets on the rubber.

Broken Glass

Broken glass isn't just unattractive, it can also let valuable sunlight and heat escape your home. Fortunately, it's possible to repair a broken window pane without having to go through a full replacement.

Begin by putting on your protective gloves and safety goggles. You should also put a piece of tape with an "X" shape on the glass you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will stop any broken pieces from falling when you work, which could save you from serious injury.

If you have a small scratch in your window glass, cover it with tape to keep out rain, wind and insects. If the crack is superficial just a single strip of tape will be enough. However, if the weather is likely to get worse before you can replace the window, you may need a more durable plastic cover like a trash bag or tarp.

For cracks that aren't as shallow try using a tough adhesive specifically designed for windows, like Loctite Super Glue Glass. This high-tech adhesive is formulated to bond to glass, and dries crystal clear for a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and let it dry completely before applying a new layer.

Glass windows can also develop stress cracks. double glazing repairs are usually caused by extreme temperature fluctuations and can spread rapidly across the entire window if they are not repaired. To stop stress cracks from occurring, score an arc of a tiny size with a glass cutter near the crack. This can prevent the crack from spreading and can slow it down for some days.

Take a look at the frame of the damaged window to determine the size of the new pane. It should be slightly larger than the opening to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to account for any imperfections that may occur on the frame or on the glass. Once you've cut your new glass to size apply glaziers' compound around the edges of both the frame and the glass. After the compound has dried paint it over to match the rest of the window frame.

Double Glazed Windows Condensation Inside

The appearance of condensation on the interior of double glazed windows usually indicates that the seal has been damaged at some point along the window unit. This is a serious problem, as it can mean that heat is being lost from your home through the window.

Double glazing has been designed to prevent heat transfer between the two panes of glass by sandwiching a layer of air or vacuum between them. This creates a tight seal that prevents warm air from venting. If the glass is cooler than the frame, condensation will form on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you're unable to remove condensation from a double-glazed window by opening windows or using extractors, dehumidifiers or trickle venting, you might require the assistance of a professional.

Condensation on the outside of double-glazed windows is uncommon however it can happen if the seal has begun to deteriorate between the glass and the frame. This is more prevalent in winter when the temperature is lower and it's more easy for condensation to form. This is due to an issue in the spacer between the frame and the window. The spacer is filled with desiccant which is extremely absorbent and will absorb any moisture that is present.

The issue is that when the desiccant becomes saturated it begins to break down, and eventually moisture will begin to seep through the gap between the glass units. This can result in condensation and water leaking into the gap, and can be very difficult to eliminate.

The good news is that the majority of trustworthy window manufacturers will provide an assurance on their products. They should replace the glass and window unit if it has been damaged by condensation. It's essential to report any issues to your window installer immediately you notice them, so that condensation can be fixed promptly in order to prevent further damage to the window unit as well as the frame surrounding it.

Shattering Window Glass

A cracked window pane isn't just a cosmetic issue, it could also present a security risk particularly if the crack is growing. It is best to have it repaired as quickly as possible. There are many methods to fix it, including using glass adhesives made for windows of vehicles, which can be purchased through the internet or at numerous auto maintenance stores. You can also make use of a glass compound designed for home use that can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores.

Before you begin any work, wear thick gloves that are cut-proof and safety glasses. Then, sweep the area to eliminate large shards. You should also vacuum up any chips that have fallen. This will prevent them from causing injury to you or a glass repair technician later on.

It's a good idea to work from a ladder, instead of standing on the ground. This will make it easier to reach all parts of the frame, and will keep you safe from falling glass. It is also a good idea to clean the rabbet prior to proceeding with the installation. This is the part of the frame around the window frame, where glass will be. Clean it and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick in place.

After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet in place, it's time to plan the replacement of the damaged pane. Purchase a piece of double strength glass that is one inch smaller in both directions. You'll also need to purchase glass points, which are made of metal triangles that help to hold the glass in place.

With the window sash removed and the pry-bar flat, use it to gently pry the sash off of the wood moulding. It is possible scrape off old glazing with a knife or chisel. Use the heat gun to warm any putty that cannot be easily removed. This will make it easier to remove.

Once the frame is free of the mold and the frame is firmly pressed, gently press the new glass into its place. Fill in the gaps with either a glazier's tipped or a knife. Once the putty is dry, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Lap the paint slightly over the edge of the compound and onto the glass to completely seal it.

Replacement Window Glass

Wear eye protection and gloves when replacing a damaged pane of glass. Tape the area around the window to prevent it from breaking when you take it off.

Begin by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood frame using a knife. Clean the frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil to help the new stick of putty to it better.

Once the frame is ready to be measured, you can measure it for the new window pane. Then purchase it from a local home improvement store or another retailer. The panes should be 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.

It's easier than you think to install the new window. But, it's essential to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure a proper fitting and long-lasting replacement. Make use of a wirebrush to clean any paint or wood gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood down to the bare wood in order to strengthen the seal.

When you are putting the new window in place, use the point of your putty knife to lightly lay the new window against the wood frame. The glazier's tips should be pressed into the frame every six inches. This will keep the new pane securely in place.


When the frame is cure, paint the joint with a few coats of paint to match the rest of the frame. Let the paint dry completely before you begin cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring they work correctly will extend their lifespan and increase the energy efficiency of your home. You might want to replace your windows if they are damaged or are old. If you choose to go this route, we recommend choosing the highest-quality, well-insulated window that will reduce the cost of your utility bills. The type of window you select will also impact the total cost of your project.