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How to Replace Glass Windows

When a window pane cracks the gaps that result allow moisture to enter the home. These holes can reduce energy efficiency as well as resale values.

Fortunately, a replacement is a cost replace window-effective and simple solution. You'll need latex glaze putty; metal glazing points, pliers and the heat gun. Wear safety glasses and gloves.

Measure the Window

The correct measurements can determine the success or failure of the window replacement windows panes project. If you purchase the replacement window that is not the correct size, it will be expensive to install and could not fit properly into the opening. Follow these steps to measure the old window prior to removing it.

Begin by measuring the width of the window frame in three places that is the top, middle and bottom. Make use of a tape measure and take note of each measurement. Be aware that the width of the window does not include any trimming. Take measurements of the frame's height in three areas: the left side the center and right side. Note the shortest measurement. Subtract 1/4 inch from both of these measurements for a rough estimation of the width and height.

Be sure to include any jamb trims when measuring the height. The distance should be measured between the interior of the jambs on the left and right side of the head jamb. If the window is constructed of the drywall, take measurements up to the top.

Now that you have the measurements Remove any nails or putty that were securing the old pane. If the molding on the other 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 small pieces of molding, simply pry them loose with a utility knife. You are now able to measure your new window frame.

Remove the Old Pane

An errant baseball, a branch that is not flying or an overzealous cleaning can crack even the toughest of window panes. In most instances, glaziers' glue and metal clips referred to as glaziers points keep the glass in the right position. To replace glass in a window a broken glass pane, the first step is to eliminate any old points and glaze putty. The new one can then be glued into place and glaze.

Wear gloves that are protected to prevent damaging the glass. Work on an even surface. Utilize a utility blade to remove the putty from the rabbet. If the old putty has difficult time getting off, use a hair dryer to soften it before you begin using your knife. The use of heat guns is to remove hard-to-remove putty. However, you should only use them in short bursts.

Once the old putty is removed, label each nail fastener or point and mark the location where it was seated in the frame. Remove the old brads or nails with pliers. If the frame is painted, you'll need to scrape off the paint with an instrument to take off the point.

Find the width and depth inside the frame opening, if you are planning to purchase a new glass. Subtract 1/8 inch from all sides to ensure that the glass you purchase is suitable. Many hardware stores and home improvement centers offer the correct size. You can also get the glass cut to size by most glass and glazing companies. If you do this, be sure to order the piece of glass replacement window one quarter-inch smaller than the opening of the frame.

Set the New Pane

When replacing a window pane it's best to use energy-efficient glass. This will save you money on your heating and cooling costs and also helping you save the environment. You can also choose a decorative or historical glass style to improve the appearance of your home.

Before starting, Replace Glass Windows clean the glass you are using to ensure that there aren't streaks or smudges. Use a utility blade to scrape the old glass putty and then clean away any residue. It's a good idea to work in a well ventilated area, and you should have mineral spirits or another solvent to clean up the mess, if needed.

To set up the new window pane, begin by applying a thin bed of compound to the backstop. Then place the pane into the rabbets and press to set it in place. Work until the window is in the center of the opening and less than 1/8 inch remains between the glass face and the rabbet.

While you're at it, scrape and sand the surrounding rabbets to bare wood Then, coat them with an exterior primer. This will help prevent moisture from leaking in and damaging the new pane. After the primer has dried, knead the putty until warm and malleable. Then, push it into the rabbets. It's okay to be a bit rough, as the aim is to create an elongated seal that will last.

Apply the Putty

In the days prior to double glazing or upvc windows, the majority of windows were constructed out of steel (usually zinc-coated) or wood and one glass pane was dropped into them. The glass was then held in place by small nails, also known as spriggs which were hammered into frames. If you examine the nails, it should be easy to get rid of them. If they aren't moving, you may have spray them with silicone sealant remover or dissolver as this will cause the glue to break down that holds them in place and allow you to free them.

You can also use a heating gun to loosen old glazing putty, making it easier to chip it with a cutting instrument. This is a safer option, but you must still be cautious not to concentrate the heat on one area of the wooden surface and cause cracks to form. When using a heater be sure to wear leather gloves and eye protection. Also, clamp the window in order to prevent it from moving when you remove the old putty.

Before applying any new putty, it is important to rub down the frame with a rag that has been dipped in mineral turpentine to clean off any bits of putty that has dried and give the surface some grip. Then apply a small amount of white putty to the inside edge of the groove where the glass will go. It is vital to get this right or the window won't fit in the groove as it should. After putting the putty in shape and smoothing it with the help of a rag soaked in turpentine the glass points can be replaced if necessary.

Apply the Oil

Whether it's a casement window (which hangs from the top and opens like the door) or a single or double-hung window, you'll have to take off the sash, or the sliding part of the window that holds the glass. Pull out the top of the sash by pressing it against the jambs of vinyl that cover the frame's sides. Then, give it a twist to release the springs at the bottom. Slider windows are the easiest to use, since you can simply lift the sash's bottom part to remove it from the frame.

After the old pane has been removed, scrub the frame using a wire brush and a utility knife to remove any paint and dirt stuck in the grooves around the beadwork of the glazing. You can also soften the glaze putty using a heat gun. Be careful not to scorch wood. If you have to, sand the grooves down to bare wood.

After the sash is removed, order your new window glass from a full-service hardware store. Be sure to accurately measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch for shrinkage. Make sure to purchase an assortment of glazing points to keep the glass in place while the new putty sets.

Before starting to re-glaze the window, apply a thick coat of linseed oil on the wood frame and allow it to soak in completely. This will lubricate the wood, which will help make your new paint last longer than it would if it was not. You can then proceed with the remainder. Linseed oils can be used to grease the tracks and hinges of sliding doors. This will keep windows and doors functioning smoothly and will prevent them from binding or sticking.