Replacing Broken Window Glass
by Michigan State University on Apr 26, 2012
Broken window glass can be replaced by regular glass or by the plastic unbreakable "glass."
Before starting to replace broken glass, put on a pair of gloves and a pair of glasses. It is easy for bits of glass to chip and fly.
Glass, in both wooden and metal frames, is held in place usually by a mechanical fastener. Putty or glazing compound is then applied to keep out the rain.
Step 1.
Carefully remove all pieces of glass being careful to clean up the area around the window to prevent injury and cuts. Use pliers to grip pieces of glass still in the window.
Step 2.
With a chisel or jackknife, remove the old putty. Be careful not to gouge the wooden frame. As you proceed around the frame you will find glaziers points (small steel triangles) in wooden frames or spring clips in metal window frames. Save these points or clips. Be sure all old putty is removed so the glass will slide into place easily.
Step 3.
With sandpaper or a rasp, clean off bits of putty which might remain on the wood or metal sash.
Step 4.
Paint the frame with linseed oil, wood preservative, or an oil base paint. This seals the wood surface under the putty and prevents the metal frame from rusting. A fast drying paint is most convenient. Step 5.
Measure the size of the glass with a yardstick or folding rule. A steel rule may sag causing errors in dimensions. Allow 1/8" clearance on all sides so reduce each measured dimension by 1/4". Buy the glass cut to the correct size.
Step 6.
Put a thin ribbon of glazing compound in the groove on the frame for the glass to rest on. Keep the thickness of this glazing compound fairly uniform so when you press the glass down into the compound it will not crack.
Step 7.
Install the glass, press it onto the glazing compound and insert the glaziers points (small metal triangles) which you removed. Push these in with a large screwdriver. If you use a hammer be careful not to break the glass. The points should be placed every 6" to 8". The spring clips for metal windows should be inserted in the holes provided in the steel frame.
Step 8.
Knead the glazing compound and form it into strings no bigger than a pencil. Lay a string of compound along one side at a time and force it onto the glass and wood frame with the tip of a putty knife. Smudges from the compound can be removed later with a cloth dipped in turpentine.
Step 9.
After the glazing compound has dried, paint it to finish sealing the seams between the glass and the compound, and the wood and the compound.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
88466 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
69962 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
69668 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
48354 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
29049 Views
Latest Articles
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Exploring Crowdfunding as an Innovative Approach to Real Estate Investment
The landscape of property selling has been transformed significantly due to the advent of property crowdfunding. This innovative approach,...
on Jan 10, 2024
The Rise of Co-Living Spaces in Asian Cities
Asia, home to 21 of the worlds 30 largest cities, is a significant player in the global economy, contributing 38% of the goods and services of the...
on Jan 5, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 115
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 112
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Should You Let Furnished or Unfurnished?
If you’re a landlord, or you’re thinking about investing in property either for a living or to supplement your other income, you’re going to have...
Repairing Holes in Rain Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters sometimes get holes in them. Sometimes it is the result of physical damage and other times it can be the product of corrosion. This is...
Dangers of Backyard Pools
Who does not love a backyard pool for a more luxurious and relaxing addition to their home? But while keeping in mind the comfort we or our...
Simple Ways to Transform a Room on a Budget
If your room has the same look over a long period of time, you obviously feel unhappy and bored. There are indeed simple ways to transform the...
Looking for Fresh Vegetables in the Winter?
Imagine having fresh greens during the winter season. Those supplies of greens such as spinach, chard, lettuce, and kale are costly, and you need...