Repairing A Glass Window
How To Repair A Broken Glass Window
Repairing windows is a task that should be dealt with immediately. Broken windows can not only weather your home down, but can also pose a threat to your security.
There are different hacks on glass window repairs that you can apply in your home. But the step-by-step process can be a little intimidating, especially for first-time DIYers. To guide you on how to repair your glass windows, we recommend that you follow these steps.
Know When to Repair
Sometimes, repairing is not the best option. You should be able to determine the level of repair your glass window needs. If that’s not the case, then maybe you should look into replacing your glass windows ultimately.
Your window glass can still be repaired if:
- It’s a cracked or broken single-pane window. Multi-paned window glass should have a sash replacement.
- Its cracks were a cause of temperature change. Cracked glass due to temperature stress is more repairable than impact cracks or pressure cracks. But then again, this can still be on a case-to-case basis, as certain cracks are worse than the other, no matter how they’re caused.
- The glass has sentimental value. You can never replace one that is valuable. If replacement is never an option, repairing your glass window can still be done, but under limited circumstances.
If you think that your window glass is beyond repair, consider replacing it for good.
Gather Your Tools
If you plan on repairing your window glass yourself, then you must have the right tools for it. Glass is one of the most delicate materials in your home, but some materials used on the glass can also be too valuable or complicated to repair.
For the curious DIYers, you have to prepare these tools first:
- Gloves for handling glass
- Window glass repair kit
- Dishwashing soap
- Epoxy glue: resin and hardener
- Putty knife
- Razor blade
- Acetone
- Toothpick and dish for mixing
- Masking tape
- Clean rags
But if this is too much for you, there are experts that can help you at One Day Glass. We’d be glad to do all these dirty work for you.
Start Repairing
Got your tools ready? Then it’s time for some action. Repair your cracked window glass by following this process:
Step 1 – Wipe Your Glass Windows Clean
It’s always recommended to start everything clean. This will be helpful to see the start and end points of the cracks clearly. Just drop a dishwashing soap on a damp cloth and start wiping away dust particles, oil or fingerprints. Wipe it again with a dry cloth after.
Step 2 – Mix the Epoxy (Resin and Hardener)
With your mixing dish and stick, pour the two-part epoxy together and start mixing. This should be done on a well-ventilated area to avoid causing reactions on the chemicals.
Mix them for at least 20 seconds using a toothpick. Once it’s mixed well, be sure you’re ready to use it as it hardens quickly.
Step 3 – Apply to the Cracks
With your putty knife, begin applying the mixed epoxy into the glass window cracks. With a back and forth motion, apply the adhesive firmly while applying a bit of pressure. Allow the epoxy to cure after, for about 5 minutes.
Step 4 – Remove Excess Epoxy
The excess epoxy must be scraped away with the razor blade to provide a smooth finish. A rag moistened with acetone can also help remove excess epoxy adhesive. Let the epoxy cure the glass for 24 hours.
Step 5 – Clean the Surface
With your trusty glass cleaner, wipe your newly-repaired window and enjoy the view.
Repairing window glass can be fun for DIYers if they’re dealing with just small cracks. However, it’s still best to seek professional help from experts for it . If you’re looking into repairing your glass windows, One Day Glass can help. Send us an inquiry today.