Glazing Repair - How to Repair a Cracked Window

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

While it is possible to replace glazing points when the window is still in place, it's faster and simpler to do so if the frame and glass are removed. It is a good idea to replace the rubber seals.

Broken Glass

Cracked windows aren't just unattractive, but also allow valuable heat and sunshine to escape your home. It's usually possible to repair a broken window without the need for a complete replacement.

Begin by putting on protective gloves and safety goggles. You should also put an X-shaped piece of tape an "X" shape on the glass you plan to remove (duct or painter's tape works well). This will prevent any shattered glass from falling onto you as you work.

Cover a small crack on your window with tape to keep insects, water and wind from getting. If the crack is superficial, a single strip of tape will suffice. However, if the weather is expected to worsen before you can replace the window, you might prefer a sturdy plastic cover such as an tarp or trash bag.

Make sure you use a strong adhesive that is specifically designed for windows to fix cracks. Loctite Super Glue Glass is a good choice. This high-tech adhesive is formulated to bond to glass and it dries crystal clear to give a perfect finish. Apply it to the crack and allow it dry completely before applying a new layer.

Glass windows may also develop stress cracks. Stress cracks are usually caused by drastic temperature changes and can quickly spread across the entire window if they are not addressed. To prevent stress cracks create an arc using glass cutters near the crack. This prevents the crack from spreading, and may slow it down by a day or so.

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

Condensation inside of Double Glazed Windows

Condensation on the interior of double-glazed windows is typically an indication that the seal around the window unit has failed. This is a serious problem and could indicate that heat is lost from your home through the window.

Double glazing is designed to stop heat transfer between two panes by sandwiching an air or vacuum layer between them. This creates an airtight seal and prevents warm air from leaving the home. If Double Glazing Repairs is warmer than the frame, condensation will form on the glass and cause damage to the window. If you've got condensation on your double-glazed window and you cannot resolve it by opening the windows, by using extractor fans, dehumidifiers, or by trickle venting then you may need to contact a professional.

Condensation of the outside of double-glazed windows is uncommon however it can happen when the seal has begun to deteriorate between the glass and the frame. This is more prevalent in winter, when the temperatures are lower and it's easier for condensation to develop. The main cause of this is a flaw in the spacer that is used between the frame and the window. The spacer usually contains desiccant which is highly absorbent and will soak up excess moisture.


This can lead to water leaking through the gap once the desiccant is saturated. This can cause condensation and water to build up in the gap, which is difficult to clean out.

The good news is that the majority of reliable window companies will provide warranties on their products and should replace the window unit and glass when it's damaged by condensation. It is crucial to report any problems to your window installer immediately you notice them, so that the condensation can be repaired promptly to avoid further damage to the window unit as well as the frame surrounding it.

Shattering Window Glass

A cracked window pane could be more than an aesthetic problem. It could also pose the risk of injury, particularly when it's spreading. It's best to have it fixed as quickly as possible. Glass adhesives are available for window glass in your vehicle that you can buy online or in many auto repair shops. Alternately, you can make use of a glazing compound formulated for home use and can be purchased in a lot of hardware and home improvement stores.

Put on a thick pair of gloves and safety goggles before you begin any work. Sweep the area to remove any large pieces of shards. You'll also want to vacuum up any chips that have fallen. This will stop them from cutting you or a glass repair technician later on.

It's better to climb a ladder rather than on the ground. This will enable you to reach all parts of the frame more easily and protect you from glass falling. Before you start it's best to clean the rabbet. This is the area where glass is placed. Apply a coat linseed to the rabbet, then wipe it clean. This will help the putty to stick.

After the frame has been cleaned and the rabbet has been prepared It's time to make the replacement pane. Take measurements of the width and height of the opening both ways Then, you can order an item of double-strength glass that's 1/8 inch shorter in both directions. You'll also need glass points, which are made of metal triangles which keep the glass in place.

With the window sash removed from the way, carefully pull it off of the wood molding using a straight pry bar. You may have to scrape off old glazing putty with a utility knife or chisel. Make use of the heat gun to warm any putty which isn't able to be removed easily. This will make it much easier to peel it off.

After the frame has been removed from the moulding, gently press the glass back into its place. Then, with a putty knife or glazier's point, fill in the gaps around it and smooth them out. After the putty has dried, paint the frame in a similar color to the putty. Paint the glass and the compound by overlapping it slightly.

Replacement Window Glass

If you're replacing a broken window pane, first wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from glass shatters. Tape the area around the window to stop it from breaking when you take it off.

Start by removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small metal triangles) from the wood sash frame using a utility knife. Clean the frame opening and then apply a coat linseed to aid in adhering the new putty better.

Once the frame has been constructed, take measurements to determine the size of the new windowpane. Then purchase it at an home improvement store or another retailer. Make sure to order the pane at least 1/6th inch smaller in each direction than your measurement to ensure a snug fit.

It's not as difficult as you think to set up a new window. However, it's essential to follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and a long-lasting replacement pane. Use a wirebrush for removing any paint or wood gunk from the frame opening. Then sand the wood down to the wood's surface to strengthen the seal.

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

After the frame has dried, paint the new joint multiple times to match the frame. Allow the paint to dry completely before cleaning and maintaining your windows. Maintaining your windows in good condition and ensuring that they function properly will increase their lifespan and improve the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are older or are in poor condition it is possible that you would be better off having the complete replacement of your windows. If you choose this option, we suggest choosing a high-quality, insulated window to lower your energy costs. The type of window you select will also influence the overall cost of your project.