How to Fix a Broken Window Glass

Window glass is akin to our eyes; when damaged, it must be taken care of immediately. A broken house window also looks unsightly and can be hazardous. Typically, the best solution is to call an emergency glass repair company, or you can try to fix it yourself.

If you choose the latter, this blog will teach you everything you need to know about how to repair a broken window pane.

Tools & Materials Needed to Replace a Broken Window

Having the right tools and materials ready before you start will make your window repair project much safer and more efficient.

Equipment/Tools

• Thick gloves
• Eye protection
• Glazing putty knife
• Wood chisel or razor scraper
• Paintbrush
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Metal straightedge
• Glass cutter
• Rubber mallet

Materials

• Sandpaper
• Linseed oil or clear wood sealer
• Replacement glass cut to size
• Glazing points
• Glazing compound
• Exterior-grade paint

Make sure your protective gear fits properly and is appropriate for handling broken glass.

How to Temporarily Fix a Broken Windowpane

If, due to different reasons, saving your current window glazing is the priority, then consider taking the following step as a temporary fix for a broken house window:

#1. Secure the Area

Once you have determined the cause of the broken window, it is essential to secure the shattered glass. Start by cordoning off the affected area. Shut the door or separate the space with a barrier, like a sheet of cardboard or a partition.

Put on sturdy shoes to guard against any scattered pieces of glass. Afterward, inform your family of the hazard and caution them to stay away from the room until you have cleared the space.

#2. Clean the Surface Carefully

When cleaning up broken glass:

• Wear protective clothing such as long pants, closed-toed shoes, and thick gloves.
• Pick up the larger pieces with a heavily layered paper bag, then place them in a garbage bag before disposing of them in the trash.
• Sweep the tiny shards into a dustpan and empty them into a paper bag for disposal.
• Vacuum the area to remove any bits of glass you may have missed.
• Fill a bucket with warm water, add cleaning soap, and mix until foamy. Using the rag, carefully wash the glazed area from both sides. After that, rinse the area with plenty of clean water.

#3. Dry out the Cracked Spot

Thoroughly dry the cracked area before attempting to repair it to ensure a successful repair and save time. Utilize a hair dryer or any other fan around the house to expedite drying. If any moisture is left in the crack, your repair efforts will be futile.

#4. Degrease the Place

Degreasing is necessary when repairing a cracked window because it removes any oils and dirt that may have built up on the window’s surface. This helps the repair materials bond better, resulting in a more robust, longer-lasting repair. It also prevents the repair materials from being contaminated and breaking down prematurely.

Acetone or gasoline is your best bet. Ensure that the material you use to apply it leaves no fibers on the working surface. If you are using cotton wool, opt for synthetic instead of natural. An alternative option is a piece of medical bandage.

#5. Use Temporary Window Fixes

A temporary fix for a broken house window may not be aesthetically appealing, but it can help you avoid further damage.

• Glass adhesive: Buy either online or in most auto maintenance stores. Make sure to read and follow the instructions that come with it.
• Nail polish or super glue: Apply the clear nail polish to the crack in several layers, wiping away any extra polish after each layer. Allow each layer to dry before adding the next.
• Plastic brace: Securely tape a piece of plastic, such as a thick notebook cover, on each side of the crack. It’s best to use a piece of plastic that is larger than the crack, but make sure to cover the most fragile part at least.
• Strong-hold tape: For deeper cracks, such as those caused by flying objects, using twice the amount of heavy-duty tapes, like masking or packing tape, on both sides can help to hold the crack together.

For expert broken window repairs, contact Apex Window Werks, proudly serving customers in Illinois, Ohio, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Our team of certified professionals brings years of experience to every job, ensuring quality repairs that last.

DIY Aluminum Window Glass Replacement

When it comes to aluminum window replacement, it’s generally simpler to take the window out and lay it on a flat surface.

Step 1: Prepare and Remove the Window

Put on cut-proof gloves and eye protection before beginning any work with glass or aluminum frames.

Step 2: Remove the Vinyl Strip

Pop out the vinyl strip from the aluminum window frame using a flat-head screwdriver or the edge of a putty knife. Inspect the vinyl strips and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage.

Step 3: Remove the Old Glass

Cut away old silicone from the exposed glass edges using a utility knife. Carefully remove any broken glass pieces, ensuring all fragments are cleared from the frame.

Step 4: Measure for Replacement Glass

Measure the frame space precisely to get the correct size for the new window pane. For proper fit, the glass should be slightly smaller than the opening.

Step 5: Test Fit the New Glass

Dry-fit the glass into the frame before sealing it in to ensure proper sizing and fit.

Step 6: Apply Silicone and Set Glass

Run a line of silicone caulk along the back edge of the aluminum frame, then press the glass firmly in place. Ensure it sits evenly within the frame.

Step 7: Seal the Edges

Run an additional line of silicone around the edges of the glass to create a weather-tight seal.

Step 8: Replace the Vinyl Strips

Fit the vinyl strips back into place, starting with the bottom strip, then the top, followed by the left and right strips. Press firmly to ensure they snap securely into the frame.

DIY Vinyl Window Glass Replacement

Vinyl window repair is relatively straightforward if you follow these systematic steps:

Step 1: Remove the Window Sash

Remove the window sash according to the manufacturer’s specific directions for your type of vinyl window.

Step 2: Remove the Glazing Strips

Carefully remove the vinyl glazing strips from around the perimeter of the vinyl frame using a putty knife or flat screwdriver.

Step 3: Remove the Old Glass Unit

Cut away the old foam tape or sealer securing the insulated glass unit. Gently lift the glass unit out of the vinyl frame, taking care not to damage the frame.

Step 4: Clean the Frame

Gently scrape the old mounting tape or sealer away from the inner channels of the sash using a putty knife. Ensure all surfaces are clean and smooth.

Step 5: Apply New Mounting Tape

Apply new double-sided mounting tape along each edge of the frame where the glass will sit. This will create a secure seal for the new glass unit.

Step 6: Replace Setting Blocks

Replace the small rubber pieces, called setting blocks, at the bottom corners of the sash. These help position and support the glass correctly.

Step 7: Install the New Glass Unit

Peel the backing from the mounting tape to expose the adhesive. Carefully set the new insulated glass unit into the frame, applying even pressure.

Step 8: Replace the Vinyl Strips

Replace the vinyl strips around the edges of the sash frame, pressing firmly until they snap into place. Start with the longest sides first.

Step 9: Reinstall the Window

Replace the window sash in the main frame and lock it back into place according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test the window’s operation to ensure proper function.

Call Apex Window Werks for Professional Window Repair Services

While it is possible to replace broken window glass, we recommend hiring professionals when the window is damaged beyond basic repairs, such as when the glass is broken, or the frame is warped or cracked.

Moreover, those who attempt to fix window glass likely have little to no knowledge of the window unit’s structure. The most crucial factor to consider when replacing the glass is not the outward appearance but rather the ability to retain insulating and soundproofing properties.

Therefore, it is best to call professionals from Apex Window Werks to quickly and efficiently replace broken glass to take care of your glazing needs.