Window Pane Repair

Repairing window pane is not at all difficult and replacing a window pane does not require much time and effort. A broken or damaged window pane will not only let cold wind to enter your room but it is also a security hazard. Window pane replacement cost is considerable, so it is a very good idea to opt for window pane repair yourself if you are handy at doing home improvement projects.

Instructions for Repairing a Window Pane

There are some tools and materials that are required for repairing window pane. These materials can be purchased from your local hardware store.

Materials Required

• Replacement glass
• Hammer
• Rubber gloves
• Linseed oil
• Tape measure
• Putty or Glaziers compound
• Putty knife
• Clean cloth
• Glass scraper
• Rust resistant paint
• Paint brushes
• Clean cloth
• Spring clips
• Masking tape
• Safety goggles

Method

The first step is to take care of your safety by wearing safety goggles and heavy gloves before attempting to repair the damaged window pane. Repairing a broken window pane can be done by removing the splintered and broken window pane from the window frame. If you want to avoid a mess of broken glasses on the floor, first put masking tape on both sides of the glass in a crisscross pattern and then gently rap the damaged pane with a hammer. Pull out all the broken pieces of the window pane and discard them in a safe place.

With the help of the chisel, gently pry out all the old putty from the frame. As you remove the putty do so in small pieces because if you try removing too much putty there is a danger that you might accidentally split the window frame. As you remove the putty you will come across small metal triangles called glaziers point which holds the glass pane in place. Remove these glaziers points as well. You will find that some putty are very difficult to remove. In that case, soften the putty by applying some linseed oil soaked in a clean cloth for 15 to 20 minutes. The putty will come off very easily. Removing all traces of old putty from the window frame is very important otherwise the new pane will not properly adhere to the frame. Apply a base layer of soft putty all around the frame of the window ensuring that it is not too thick. Now to fix window pane insert the new replacement glass on the frame, making sure that it is of exactly the same size as the old glass.

If the replacement glass is not of the same size, then cut it with the help of a glass cutter to the exact required size. Press down the new window pane gently but firmly over the new layer of putty and insert four glaziers point on each corner of the frame. You can also insert additional glaziers point at a distance of every 4'' for better grip. Use the back of the putty knife to drive the glaziers point firmly into the wood of the frame. Be very careful while taping the chisel into the glaziers point since a sudden pressure might shatter the glass. After all the glaziers points have been inserted, knead the putty until it is soft and pliable and has a dough like consistency. Take a single roll of putty and start applying it from one corner of the window frame. Make sure that the putty is molded around the glass pane as well as the window frame. With the help of a putty knife, put it firmly in place with long even strokes. If the putty knife sticks to the putty, just dip it in linseed oil. To remove excess putty that is visible on the window pane, remove it with a glass scraper. Allow the putty to dry completely for three days. After the glass is firmly in place, paint the window frame and dried putty in exactly the same shade as the rest of the windows.

So, this was how you do repair a window pane. Do not forget to apply at least two coats of paint on the window frame for best results.