If your current windows are not under warranty and a pane breaks or cracks, you will have to get it replaced on your own dime. It’s a good idea to do this as soon as possible. Not only is a broken window unsightly, it poses a security hazard. Having a window that is visibly cracked or patched with tape sends a message to burglars that home protection is not a priority for you.

Always wear cut resistant gloves and safety goggles when handling the broken glass and the replacement pane. If you must break the old window pane further to remove it, apply pressure from the inside of your home to push the pane out onto your lawn. Lay down a sheet or a large piece of cardboard to catch the broken pieces and make cleanup easier.

Metal & Vinyl versus Wood

The ease with which you can replace a window pane depends on the sash material. Modern vinyl and aluminum frames often allow you to simply slip a new piece of glass in place and secure it with clips. The sash may also be designed with a groove or rubber seal to help keep the glass from shifting.

A wooden sash is a little more challenging to work with. You will need to scrape off the old putty prior to installing a new pane. Apply fresh putty to the inside of the sash generously but evenly to form a sticky rope that will hold the replacement window pane. Insert the pane and push in metal glazier points at 4” intervals to help hold the glass in place. Add more putty, pressing it in firmly to form a seal all the way around the edge of the window and wiping it smooth. Allow the putty to dry; then paint it to match the sash.

Related posts:

1. Double Hung Window Basics
2. Window Replacement Materials
3. Double/Dual Pane Windows
4. INSTALLING VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
5. Improving Window Operation

Tags: windows

This entry was posted on Monday, July 19th, 2010 at 6:42 pm and is filed under Replacement Windows. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.