Fixing a broken glass window pane involves removing the old glass, preparing the frame, installing the new glass, and sealing it properly. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Safety First!
- Wear safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from sharp glass shards.
- Prepare the area: Lay down a drop cloth to catch debris.
2. Remove the Broken Glass and Clean the Frame
- Carefully remove large pieces of glass. Dispose of them properly in a designated container (e.g., a sturdy box labeled "Broken Glass").
- Pry out the old glazing compound: Use a stiff putty knife or chisel to carefully remove the hardened glazing compound or putty that holds the glass in place. Apply heat from a heat gun or hairdryer to soften stubborn putty.
- Clean the frame: Scrape away any remaining putty or debris. Use a wire brush to clean the rabbet (the groove where the glass sits).
- Remove old glazing points: These small metal or plastic fasteners hold the glass in place. Use pliers to pull them out.
3. Measure and Obtain the New Glass
- Measure the frame opening accurately: Measure the width and height of the rabbet, inside the frame. Subtract approximately 1/8 inch from each measurement to allow for expansion and contraction of the glass.
- Order or cut the new glass: Take your measurements to a local hardware store or glass supplier to have the glass cut to the correct size. You can also cut your own glass if you have the necessary tools and experience.
4. Prepare the Frame for New Glass
- Apply a thin layer of linseed oil (optional): Applying linseed oil to the rabbet can help the new glazing compound adhere better and prevent it from drying out too quickly. Let the oil soak in for a few minutes before proceeding.
5. Install the New Glass
- Apply a thin bead of glazing compound: Roll a rope of glazing compound between your hands and press it into the rabbet around the entire perimeter. This creates a cushion for the glass.
- Carefully position the glass: Gently place the new glass pane into the frame, centering it in the opening.
- Secure the glass with glazing points: Insert glazing points around the perimeter of the glass, approximately every 4-6 inches. Push them in firmly with a putty knife or glazing tool until they are flush with the frame.
- Press the glass evenly: Gently press the glass pane to ensure it's seated evenly against the glazing compound.
6. Glaze the Window
- Apply the glazing compound: Roll another rope of glazing compound between your hands and press it firmly against the glass, overlapping the edge of the glass and the frame.
- Smooth the glazing compound: Use a putty knife or glazing tool to smooth the glazing compound at a 45-degree angle, creating a neat, beveled edge. Remove any excess compound.
7. Curing and Painting
- Allow the glazing compound to cure: Let the glazing compound cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually several days or weeks). This allows it to harden and form a weather-tight seal.
- Paint the glazing compound: Once the glazing compound is cured, paint it with an exterior-grade paint to protect it from the elements and blend it with the surrounding frame.
