9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Window Pane Replacement

How to Do Window Pane Replacement

If a window pane cracks or becomes broken it must be replaced immediately. It could lead to a decline in energy efficiency, or allow moisture to accumulate between the two panes.

The average homeowner can replace a window pane for only a fraction of the cost of replacing a complete window. To replace a window pane you'll have to remove the window that is in use, clean the frame and apply new putty.

Removing the Old Pane

The first step in replacing windows is to remove the old pane from the window. It is crucial to use safety equipment like gloves and masks for face. It is also advisable to work on the ground whenever feasible and to utilize a ladder that can be secured securely to avoid falling. After the old pane has been removed, you can start working on the window's frame. It's a good idea to lightly sand down the area. After that, apply a coat of linseed oil on the wood frame to help the glazing compound to remain flexible.

When you're ready to start the project, ensure that your workspace is clear of all traces of debris and that you have the tools you need. You will need to use a utility knife to scrape off any old glue that remains on the glass or in the frame of the window. It could take some effort and time however, it is essential to ensure the highest quality finished product.

Once you have removed all the old putty, you'll have a clean opening for your new window. To make sure that the new window will fit take a measurement of the opening and subtract 1/8" from the width and the length. You can also take a portion of the old pane to a hardware store to match the type of glass and thickness.

Window panes aren't just meant to be pretty, they can actually help make your home more efficient in energy use by decreasing heat loss, glare, and noise. Replacing just one window pane is not a difficult task.

Once you have replaced the broken pane, it must seal and caulk the edges of the new window to hold it in its place. This will not only give your window a an attractive aesthetic but will also ensure that your new window is energy efficient and watertight. Installing a window film can save you money on energy bills by reducing the amount of heat that is lost through your windows.

Then, remove the Putty

The glazing putty that is used to hold panes of glass in their frames can be very difficult to remove. It becomes hard when it dries, and this makes it difficult to remove without damaging the glass. To avoid this, it's best to take out the old putty before installing the new one. It's not easy to remove window putty, however, with perseverance and determination it is doable. Wearing leather gloves and eye protection is recommended when working with glass. It could be hazardous.

Take out any nails or spriggs that hold the window in position before you begin to remove the putty. These nails were used to keep the window in place prior to when upvc or double glazed replacement windows glazing was made available. They are usually located in the corners of the frame and can be removed with an screwdriver when they are exposed or by cutting them off using hacksaw. If any are hidden, you'll require a small chisel (or putty chisel) to remove them from the frame.

After the nail has been removed, you will need to use mineral spirits to wash away any remaining bits of old putty. This product is available from many hardware stores and is best used in a ventilated area. It is also recommended to use the oil in short bursts to avoid over heating the paint and wood because this could cause it to crack or explode.

A heat gun can also be used to soften the putty. This will work better on putty that has been painted over or is hardened, and is extremely efficient. Make sure you keep moving when using the heat gun because being stationary for too long can burn the wood and cause cracked glass.

Steel wool can be used to get rid of the putty. However this method is not as efficient and may cause a mess. This method should only be used in a last-resort and is not recommended in homes with children.

Removing the Metal Glazing Points

A hurled baseball, or an unruly tree branch can cause a lot of damage on a window. Although most people assume the broken window will require a full replacement of both the frame and the sash, it is possible to restore the view and reduce energy bills by replacing only the glass.

The first step of a window glass replacement is to remove the glazing points that hold the old pane in place. With a putty knife scrape as much of the softened glaze as is possible to expose the points. There should be at most four of them, evenly spaced on each side of the frame. Once you see the metal, grab each one with pliers that have needles and pull straight out. Do not pull too difficult. If the point is stubborn or breaks, it could cause damage to the frame.

After you have removed the metal points and putty, you are able to begin to prepare the frame. Make sure the grooves are clean and free of dents and cracks. A heat gun is useful in this process however, be careful and employ a low temperature in order to stop the wood from shrinking or becoming damaged.

If the glass is double pane, bring a shard of the old window with you to ensure that the new pane is properly fitted. Then, place a small dot of silicone sealant over the inside surface of the frame rabbet and press the new window into it. Then, trim off any excess sealant using a sharp blade and then apply a coat of exterior paint to finish the job.

If you only have one pane of glass you can skip this step. If the new glass is different thickness from the original, get an appropriate-sized piece of glass from a local glass cutter. Put a glazier's pushpoint at each corner of the frame's rabbet prior to installing the new pane (two per side for windows replacement with small windows, and more for larger windows). This will give the pane more support and prevent it from falling off.

Installing the New Pane

Window panes aren't just for appearances; they can also help improve efficiency in energy use, shield the home from rain and insects, as well as improve security. When they fail or are damaged, it's important to replace them as quickly as possible. Many homeowners are not aware of how to replace a window. It's simple to repair a damaged window pane. It's easy to replace a window pane with just a few items and a few easy steps.

Begin by removing the old windowpane. Be careful not to cut yourself. Make sure you have a towel available to clean up any remaining glass, and keep the shards for a replacement of window glass pane. After the old glass has been removed using a tape measure, you can use it to determine the measurements of the frame's rough opening. Note down the dimensions and subtract 1/8 inch off each side to get the new glass size. This helps ensure a tight fit and allows for natural expansion and contraction of the glass. You can take the measurements to the local hardware store or home improvement shop and they will cut a new piece glass for you. Bring a piece of glass from the old window that is the same thickness and type.

Apply a small amount of caulk made from latex to the edges of the glass after it has been placed. This will form a seal. Then, insert glazier's points into the holes in the frame, centered around the edge of the glass. You'll need two points per side to make an total of eight.

If you still have wood molding that is around the edges of the frame, you can replace these now as well. Make sure to clean the molding and putty well before reinstalling them to ensure they won't interfere with your new pane.

While it's tempting to procrastinate on replacing a damaged window pane but doing this could cause further damage to the glass and the surrounding sash. It also increases the chances that you'll need to replace the entire window in the future. Anyone with a basic tool can replace a single broken pane of glass.