Glass Window Repair
Put on a pair safety goggles and gloves prior to you begin to repair glass windows. Tape a plastic sheet over the broken glass in order to shield it from wind, rain and pests.
Mix a half-and-half mix of two-part epoxy on a disposable surface, following the manufacturer's instructions for the product you use. It may take several minutes before the epoxy becomes thick enough to penetrate the crack.
Broken Panes
Glazier's points and glaziers putty are used to secure most single pane windows in the right position. If the glazier's points or a glazier's glue fails to hold the glass in place, you can substitute the broken pane instead of replacing the entire window sash. It's not a task that is suited to the novice. It requires a lot of perseverance and skills to fix a wooden frame window without breaking the new glass. If you're not comfortable with working on windows, you should hire an expert.
Begin by gently prying off the pieces of trim that keep the broken glass in position. Utilize a utility knife remove any caulking or putty that is holding the old glass in place.
Scrape, sand and clean the area where the new glass will be placed. Apply a thin layer epoxy to the back of the lead and ensure that it doesn't contact any of the framing. Use a tool to gently lift the lead edge, allowing the glass to be removed.
If the glass you purchased is in good shape you can reuse it to make a fresh pane. If not, measure the width and height of the opening in order to determine the exact dimensions of a new pane. Subtract 1/8 of an inch from each measurement to allow the glass to expand and contract with the frame. Most hardware stores can cut glass to your specifications or you can purchase it already cut at the store.
Roll a cord glazier's compound to a rope, and then push it into the corner of the window where the new glass will rest. Make sure the compound is smooth around the edges of your window to ensure that it fits perfectly.
Fill any small holes in the glass with more compound. Push a new glass piece into the window sash. If it's not perfectly in the center, you can shift the glass into its correct position and smooth out the gap with your putty knife. If needed, insert the glazier's point every six inches.
Scratches
Glass is a beautiful and durable surface that can be found in a wide range of homes. It is used for everything from shower walls to tabletops. However, normal wear and tear can cause ugly scratches on glass windows, which can reduce their shine. While professional glaziers are needed to repair serious gouges, small scratches can be repaired by the homeowner.
The first step is to examine the scratch. Is it deep enough that you can feel it with your fingernail? If so, you'll likely have to call an expert to repair or replacement. However If your fingernail simply glides over the scratch and does not catch the scratch, you might be able get it looking better using simple household items.
First clean the surface of the glass using regular glass cleaner and a soft cloth (preferably microfiber) that withstands water and won't leave threads on the glass. This will get rid of any dirt and debris that may further damage the surface.
Then, add a small amount of toothpaste onto a moist clean, lint-free fabric. Rub the paste over the scratched area of your glass window by making circular motions. Continue rubbing the scratch for 30 seconds each time until it disappears.
After the polishing process, rinse off your glass with a damp cloth to remove any remaining nail polish and polish remover. Dry the glass's surface with a clean, lint-free cloth.
This method is great for minor scratches that don't interfere with the function of your glass windows or doors. Be sure to avoid any cleaning products that contain abrasive materials that could further scratch your glass windows or tabletop.
If you aren't a fan of toothpaste, clear nail polish is another household item that can remove scratches. Apply a thin coat clear nail varnish to your glass using the applicator that comes with the bottle. Let it dry for about an hour before removing any excess nail polish with nail polish remover. This can be a bit more difficult than baking soda, so it's important to take your time and apply a smooth coat.
Stained Glass
Stained glass can be an amazing work of art. It is often found in churches, homes and even businesses. It is usually made from colored glass that has then been painted and fired. Lead cames are used to hold it together. Designs and details can be painted in solid or shaded lines.
Stained windows are exposed to the elements, meaning they are susceptible to cracking and other damages. They also run the risk of vandalism and accidental damage. A professional can assist you to identify signs of damage and repair. It is crucial to examine stained-glass pieces at least once a year.
There are different methods for stained glass repairs depending on the piece. One way is to use a putty mix that can be brushed onto the window and then pushed down the lead cames. This helps stabilize the piece and is a simple fix that does not require soldering skills.
Another method involves using an adhesive that is flexible, such as JB Weld. It is essential to choose an adhesive that is clear, and can be compatible with lead and glass, such as silicone. Amateurs can match the color of the epoxy by adding very tiny amounts of liquid pigment or powdered pigment before applying the mixture to the surface.
If the stained glass is old it could be necessary to re-solder it or add new lead. This is a skilled task however it's less expensive than replacing the whole panel.
In most cases when an old stained glass window is in need of repair, it is impossible to completely restore the piece. In these situations it might be necessary that the damaged piece be replaced with a more durable one that is able to withstand the harsh conditions it will face. A stained glass expert who has the experience will know whether an artwork is beyond repair and has to be replaced. They can handle the more complicated process quickly and efficiently.
Sealing
There are a variety of cost-effective ways to stop a crack from spreading when it isn't caused by broken glass. Some of these options are temporary, but they will keep your home safe until you can afford to replace the broken glass or repair the crack for good.
You can temporarily seal cracked windows by sealing the edges using silicone sealant. This kind of adhesive was designed for use on vehicle windows, but can be used on home windows. Follow the directions on the package to apply. You can also use small pieces of plastic, like the cover of a book to secure a damaged edge. This will prevent a blow or rogue object from damaging the crack.
The most permanent way to fix a crack is to remove the glass that has broken and replace it with a new pane. This requires double glazing windows repairs some preparation, such as scraping, sanding and then applying an exterior primer to the bare wood. It is best to have all of your supplies ready before you start the project, to avoid last-minute shopping trips.
Once the frame is finished, hire a local glass shop to cut you a new pane of glass. Find the empty frame's height and width and then purchase a double-thick frame 1/8 inch smaller on each side than the measurements you took. Also purchase new glazier points, which are metal triangles that hold the glass in the frame.
Make sure that the old putty has dried completely and is free of chips or cracks prior to you begin installing the new window. If the putty is soft, you'll have a harder time securing the glass to the frame and the window is more likely to break. Heat guns can be used to warm the putty in order to soften it. If you use this method make sure you don't overheat the frame or glass.