Glass Window Repair
Wear safety gloves and goggles before fixing glass windows. Tape a plastic sheet on the broken glass to shield it from wind, rain and pests.
Mix a half-and-half mix of two-part epoxy on a surface that is disposable according to the instructions of the manufacturer for the product you choose to use. It could take a few minutes before the epoxy thickens enough to penetrate the crack.
Broken Panes
The majority of single pane glass is held in place with glaziers putty and small metal clips called glazier's points. If one of these fails to hold the window in place, it's possible to replace the damaged pane, without replacing the entire sash. It's not a job that is suited to the novice. It takes a lot of perseverance and skills to fix a wooden frame window without breaking the new glass. If you are not confident working on windows, hire an expert.
Begin by carefully removing the trim pieces holding the broken glass in place. Use an utility knife to take off 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. Then, apply a small amount of epoxy to the back of the lead making sure that it doesn't touch any of the framing. Utilize a chisel or a filling knife to gently lift the edge of the lead and let you free the glass.
If the original glass was in good condition, it can be reused to make a replacement pane. Take measurements of the width and height to determine the precise size for a replacement pane. Subtract 1/8 of an inch from each measurement in order to allow the glass to expand and contract with the frame. You can purchase glass that is already cut at a hardware store or cut it according to your specifications.
Make a compound for glaziers that is rolled into a rope and then press it into the corner of the window where the glass is going to rest. Make sure the compound is smooth all around the edges of the window so it's a snug fit.
If there is a small hole in the corner of the glass, you can fill it with compound. Then push a new piece of glass into position in the window sash. If it's not perfectly in the center, you can shift the glass into its correct position and smooth the gaps using a putty knife. If necessary, press the new glazier's point into the frame approximately every six inches.
Scratches
Glass is a tough and attractive surface for homes, from windowpanes to shower walls to tabletops. Normal wear and tear however, can cause ugly scratches on glass windows. This reduces their shine. While professional glaziers are needed for serious gouges, minor scratches can be fixed by the homeowner.
The first step is to examine the scratch. Is the scratch large enough that you can feel it with your fingernail or thumb? You will need to call a professional if you want to repair or replace your glass window. However, if your fingernail easily glides over the scratch, without catching it, you may be able to keep it looking better by using basic household items.
First clean the surface of the glass with regular glass cleaner and a soft cloth (preferably microfiber) that can withstand moisture and doesn't leave threads on the glass. This will eliminate any debris or dirt that could further damage the glass's surface.
Add a small amount to a damp, lint free cloth. Rub the paste over the scratched area of your glass window using circular motions. Continue to rub the scratch for 30 seconds at a time until the scratch disappears.
After polishing clean your glass with a wet cloth to get rid of any nail polish or polish remover that may remain. Dry the glass surface with a clean, non-lint cloth.
This method is ideal for minor scratches that won't affect the functionality of your glass windows or doors. Be sure to avoid any cleaning products that contain abrasive materials which could cause further scratches to your glass windows or tabletop.
If you're not a big fan of toothpaste, another popular household product used to eliminate scratches is clear nail polish. After you've cleaned and dried your glass then apply a thin layer of clear nail polish with the applicator brush that comes with the bottle. Let it dry for approximately an hour, then clean any nail polish that is left on the surface by using a nail polish remover. This method is a little more complicated than baking soda, so make certain to apply a smooth layer.
Stained Glass
Stained glass can be an exquisite work of art. It can be found in churches, private homes, and businesses. It is typically made from colored glass that has been fired and painted in the kiln. Lead cames are used to help hold it together. Details and designs can be painted as solid or shaded lines.
Stained windows are exposed to the elements, which means they could suffer cracks and other damages. They are also at risk of vandalism and accidental damage. It is important to inspect stained glass pieces at least every year, and professionals can help to identify signs that the piece requires repair.
Depending on the particular piece that is being repaired, there are various techniques used for stained glass repair. One option is to make use of a putty mix that can be brushed onto the window and then pushed into the lead cames. This is a simple fix that doesn't require soldering.
Another method involves using a flexible adhesive like JB Weld. It is crucial to locate an adhesive that is clear, and can be compatible with lead and glass like silicone. Amateurs can match the color of the epoxy by adding very tiny amounts of liquid pigment or powdered color before applying the mixture on the surface.
If the stained glass is older it could be necessary to re-solder it or add new lead. This requires skill, however it is possible to do it in situ and is less costly than replacing the entire panel.
It is not always possible to restore an old stained-glass window. In these situations it is possible to replace the damaged item with one that is more durable and can stand up to the harsh conditions that it will face. A skilled stained glass expert can quickly determine if the work is beyond repair and should be replaced. They can handle the more complicated process quickly and efficiently.
Sealing
There are a variety of cost-effective ways to stop cracks from spreading even when it isn't caused by broken glass. Some of these options are temporary but they'll protect your home until you can afford to replace the damaged glass or fix the crack permanently.
You can temporarily seal cracks in windows by sealing the repair window edges using silicone sealant. This type of glue was specifically designed for use on vehicle windows, but it is equally effective on windows at home. Simply follow the package instructions for application. You can also make small pieces of plastic, like the book's cover to support a damaged edge. This will stop a gust or rogue item from further breaking the crack.
The most effective way to repair broken windows is to replace the damaged glass with an entirely new one. This requires some preparation including scraping, sanding and then applying an exterior primer to the unfinished wood. It is recommended to have all of your materials ready before you start the project, so that you don't have to make last-minute shopping trips.
Once the frame is complete and you are satisfied, you can contact an expert glass maker in your area to cut a new piece of glass. Choose a double-thick pane of glass that is 1/8 inch smaller on both sides of the measurements taken. Buy a new set of glazier triangles, which keep the glass in position.
Before installing the new glass, ensure that the old putty is completely dry and free of chips or cracks. If the putty remains soft it will be difficult to secure the glass to the frame. The window is likely to break. It is possible to use heat guns to warm the putty and soften it. If you use this method, be careful not to overheat the frame or glass.