How to Replace Glass Windows

When a window pane cracks, the gaps that result let moisture into the home. These holes also decrease energy efficiency and resale value.

A replacement is a cost-effective and simple solution. You will need latex glazing putty, metal glazing points; pliers and the heat gun. Wear safety goggles and gloves.

Measure the Window

The correct measurements can determine the success or failure of the window replacement project. If you purchase the replacement window that is not the correct size, it will be expensive to install and it may not fit correctly in the opening. To avoid this, follow these steps to take measurements of the old window prior to taking it down.

Begin by measuring the width of the window frame from three angles that is the top, middle and the bottom. Utilize a tape measure to record every measurement. Be aware that the width of the window does not include any trimming. Then, measure the height of the frame in three places on the left side, the center and the right side. Take note of the lowest measurement. Subtract 1/4 inch from each of these measurements to arrive at a rough height and width measurement.

Make sure to include any jamb trims when measuring the height. Then measure the distance from the inside of the left and right side jambs to the head jamb, or if the windows are covered with drywall instead jambs, measure the distance to the top of the drywall.

Once you have the measurements, you can remove the nails and putty that are holding the old pane. If the molding on one side of the frame has nail holes or holes in the paint, a pull-type scraper or an old chisel could work. If you only have tiny pieces of molding, simply cut them loose using a utility knife. You are now able to measure your new window frame.

Take off the old Pane

Even the strongest of windows cost to replace can be shattered by a baseball that fly out of control, a branch that flies too high, or cleaning that is done with excessive energy. In most cases, glaziers' putty and metal clips referred to as glaziers' points hold the glass in place. To replace a broken glass pane, the first step is to eliminate any old points and glazing putty. The replacement will then laid in place and then glazed.

Wear protective gloves to protect the glass. Work on an even surface. Utilizing a utility knife, carefully cut off the putty and the point from the rabbet. If the old putty is difficult to remove, soften it with a hair dryer before cutting it with your knife. You can also use a heating gun to remove the hard-to-remove glazing however, be sure to apply the heat in short bursts and avoid touching the glass with any tools used on the frame.

After the old putty has been removed, mark each nail fastener or point and mark the place of the nail fastener's position in the frame. Utilizing pliers, you can remove the old nails or brads. If the frame is painted, the paint will have to be removed using the help of a knife before you remove the point.

Find the width and depth of the frame opening if you have to purchase a replacement glass. Subtract 1/8 inch from all sides to ensure the glass you choose to replace fits. You will usually find the right size in many hardware stores and home improvement stores. You can also have the glass cut to your specific size by a majority of glazing and glass firms. If you do, be sure to purchase the piece of glass less than a quarter-inch larger than the frame opening.

Set the New Pane

If you're planning to replace a window pane it's a good idea to invest in energy-efficient glass replaced in window. You will save money on cooling and heating costs, as well as helping to save the environment. You can also choose a more decorative or historic glass style to add to the style of your home.

Before you begin, clean the glass you are using to ensure there are no streaks or smudges. Utilize a utility blade to scrape away the old glass putty, and then brush away any residue. It is recommended to work in a well ventilated space, and you should have mineral spirits or another solvent in your arsenal to clean up the mess if you need to.

To put in the new window pane, begin by applying a thin layer of compound on the backstop. Then place the pane into the rabbets, and press to fix it. Make sure that the window is perfectly centered within the opening, and only 1/8 inch of space remains between the face of the glass and the rabbet.

While you're at it scrape and sand around the rabbets until they are bare and then paint them with an exterior primer. This will prevent water from getting in and damaging the new pane. After the primer has dried and is dry, knead some putty until it's warm and malleable, then push it into the rabbets. It's okay to be a little rough, since the goal here is to create an enduring seal.

Apply the Putty

In the past, prior to upvc or double glazing windows replace cost, the majority of windows were made out of steel (usually zinc-coated) or wood, and a single glass pane would be dropped into them. The glass was fixed by tiny nails, called spriggs, which were hammered into frames. If you take a close look at the nails, it should be easy to remove them. If they are stubborn you can spray them with silicone sealant dissolver or remover to break down the glue that holds them.

You can also use a heatgun to loosen old glazing putty and make it easier to chip it with a chisel. This is a much safer alternative, but you need to be careful not to concentrate the heat on one part of the wood and crack it. Always wear gloves made of leather and eye protection when using a heating gun. Also, make sure the window is secured to prevent it from moving when you are chopping out the old putty.

Before applying any new putty, it is essential to rub the frame with an abrasive soaked in mineral turpentine to clean off any traces of dried putty and to give the surface some more grip. Then, apply a thin layer of white putty on the inside edge of the groove where the glass will be. This is crucial otherwise the window will not sit properly within the groove. The glazing points can then be replaced if necessary after the putty has been smoothed and shaped by a rag soaked with the turpentine.

Apply the oil

Whether it's a casement window (which hinges on the top and opens like a door) or a single- or double-hung window, you'll need remove the sash or the sliding part of the window that holds the glass. Put pressure on the jamb liners made of vinyl which cover the frame's sides and then pull the sash's top, then give a twist to release the springs for the latch in the bottom. Slider windows are the easiest to use, since you can just lift up on the sash's bottom part to remove it from the frame.

After the old glass is removed, clean the frame with a wire brush and utility knife to remove any dirt and paint that has accumulated in the grooves surrounding the beadwork for the glazing. You can also soften the glazing putty by using a heating gun, but take care not to burn the wood. If necessary, sand down the grooves until you have bare wood.

After the sash is removed, purchase your new window glass at an all-service hardware store. Be sure to accurately measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch for shrinkage. Buy a package with glazing points to hold your glass until the putty has set.

Apply a thick layer of linseed onto the wood frame before re-glazing the window. Let it soak into. This will lubricate your wood and help your new glue last longer. You can then proceed with the remainder. You can also use the oil from linseed to lubricate the tracks and hinges of sliding doors also. This will ensure that windows and doors are running smoothly and Replace Glass Windows stop them from binding or sticking.