Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window

Glazing can have a major impact on the energy efficiency of your home. This is especially true in older double-glazed windows.

It is possible to change the glazing points by putting the window in place, but it is much easier and quicker to remove the glass and frame. This is also an excellent opportunity to change the gaskets made of rubber.

Broken Glass

Cracked glass isn't just unsightly but can also let valuable heat and sunlight escape from your home. Fortunately, it's often possible to repair a damaged window without the need for full replacement.

Wear safety glasses and gloves. You should also place a piece of tape in an "X" shape on the glass you plan to remove (duct or painter's tap works well). This will prevent any shattered glass from falling on you as you work.

If you've noticed a small crack in the glass of your window you can cover it with tape to block the elements like wind, water, and insects. If the crack is only superficial, a single strip of tape is enough. However, if the weather is expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you might need a more durable plastic cover such as a trash bag or tarp.

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

Stress cracks are a different problem that can happen to your glass window. They are usually caused by large changes in temperature, and they can quickly spread across the entire glass window if it's not fixed. To prevent stress cracks, score a small arc with glass cutters close to the crack. This stops the crack from spreading, and can reduce the size by a few days.

If you're replacing an old window, measure the frame for the new pane. It should be slightly larger than the opening in order to allow for expansion and contracting, as well as to compensate for any imperfections on the frame or on the glass. After cutting your new glass, apply glaziers compound around the edges of the frame and glass. After the compound has dried paint it to match the frame.

Condensation inside of Double Glazed Windows

The appearance of condensation on the inside of double glazed windows usually indicates that the seal has failed somewhere along the window unit. This is a significant issue because it indicates that heat from your home is lost through the window and can be costly for you and your energy bills.

Double glazing is designed to block heat transfer between two panes by putting an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates a seal that prevents warm air from venting. If the glass is warmer than the frame, condensation will develop on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you are unable to resolve condensation on double-glazed windows by opening windows, using extractors, using dehumidifiers, or trickle venting, then you might require the assistance of professional help.

Condensation on the outside of double-glazed windows is uncommon however it can happen when the seal has begun to break down between the glass and the window frame. This is more common in winter when the temperature is lower and it's more easy for condensation to form. The most likely cause is a fault in the spacer that is placed between the window and the frame. The spacer is made up of desiccant which is very absorbent and will soak up any moisture that is present.

This could result in moisture seeping through the gap when the desiccant is saturated. This can cause condensation and water to build up in the gap, which is difficult to clean out.

The positive side is that many reputable window companies will offer warranties on their products and should replace the window unit and glass if it has been damaged by condensation. It is crucial to report any problems to your window installer as soon as you notice them, so that the condensation can be repaired 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 is more than an aesthetic problem. It could also pose an injury risk, particularly if it is spreading. It is best to have it repaired as soon as you can. Glass adhesives are available for windows in vehicles that can be purchased online or in numerous auto maintenance shops. Alternatively, you can make use of a glass compound designed for use in homes that can be found at a variety of hardware or home improvement stores.

Before beginning any work, put on thick protective gloves and safety glasses. Then, sweep the area to remove large shards. You should also vacuum up any chips. This will prevent them from cutting you or a glazing repair technician later on.

It is best to stand on a ladder than on the ground. This will make it easier to reach all the areas of the frame and keep you safe from falling glass. It's also recommended to wash the rabbet before proceeding to the area around the perimeter of the window frame, where glass will be. Clean it off and then apply a coat of linseed oil to the rabbet, which will help the new putty stick in place.

After the frame is cleaned and the rabbet prepared, it is time to put together the replacement pane. Take measurements of the width and height of the opening in both directions Then, you can order the double-strength piece of glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll also need glass points, which are made of metal triangles that hold the glass in the right place.


After removing the window sash, use a flat pry-bar to gently pry the sash away from the moulding of wood. You may have to scrape old glazing putty off with a utility blade or chisel. Make use of the heat gun to warm any putty that isn't able to be removed easily. This will make it easier to peel it off.

After double glazing repair has been removed from the molding and the frame is pressed gently into the new glass in its place. Fill in the gaps with either a glazier's tipped or a knife. When the putty is dry, paint it to match the frame. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping the paint slightly.

Replacement Window Glass

Wear eye protection and gloves when replacing a broken pane of glass. Tape off the area around the damaged window to prevent it from shattering in a different spot when you remove it.

Use a utility blade to scrape the old glazing compound from the frame and glazing points (small triangles of metal). Then, clean the frame opening and apply a layer of linseed oil to help the new putty stick to it better.

When the frame is complete and you are ready to take measurements for the new window pane. Then buy it from a home improvement store or any other retailer. Choose the panes 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement. This will ensure a tight fit.

Installing the new window is much easier than it sounds, but be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure a correct fit and a long life for your replacement pane. Make use of a wirebrush to clean any old paint or wood gunk from the frame's opening. Then sand the wood down to the surface of the wood to improve the seal.

When you're putting the new pane in place, use the point of your putty knife to lightly place the window on the frame of wood. Press glazier's tips into the frame every six inches. This will hold the new window securely in position.

Once the frame has been cure, you can coat the new joint with several coats of paint to match the rest of the frame. Let the paint completely dry before moving on to cleaning and maintaining your window. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring that they function properly will increase their lifespan and improve the energy efficiency of your home. It is possible to replace your windows if they are old or in poor condition. If you decide to go with this option, we suggest choosing a high-quality, insulated window to reduce your utility costs. The type of window you choose will also influence the total cost of your project.