How to fix a broken window

Replacing a broken window or pane of glass is definitely doable by the do-it-yourself homeowner. This article will cover replacing broken windows for single-pane types only. Dual or triple-glazed windows should be fixed or replaced by a professional. Let’s take a look at the short list of steps to follow when doing a broken window replacement. Read below about preparing for your broken window glass replacement and then follow what you need to do for wood versus other types of frames.

Preparing to fix your broken window
Keep in mind that you should wear heavy, flexible gloves when working with any broken glass. Use common sense. Eye protection is good too, since you never know when glass shards might pop up as you break the old glass out of the broken window you’re fixing.

First, remove the window from it’s jambs, if possible. You may not be able to do this, so replace your broken window while it’s up. Do this from the outside. Next, remove the glazing compound from the edges using a metal putty knife. You may need to soften the glazing with a heat gun or hair dryer. Now, use a screwdriver, needle-nosed pliers or your putty knife to pry out the glazier’s points (small metal points that hold the glass in place). Whatever broken glass remaining in the window should start to loosen and come out as you go. Use your pliers for pieces that are stuck. Finally, scrape away all old putty and clean it up. The little groove at the edges (called a rabbet), should be free of glass and other debris. Brush out with a coarse brush if necessary. To help your new glass, you can paint the rabbet with a quick drying primer.

Now, measure the area within the window pane for your replacement glass. Subtract 1/8″ on all dimensions for proper clearance. In total, this means that the width and height of the glass you’ll insert should be 1/4″ less than what you measured. You’re now ready to buy your replacement glass. Take a small piece to the store or dealer so you can be sure to match the type that was in there, for example, tempered glass.

Replace a broken window – WOOD
Before setting in your replacement pane of glass, make a thin bead of glazing compound and press it into the rabbet all the way around. This will help cushion and provide a better seal. Now, set in your new glass. When it’s firmly in place, secure it with new glazier’s points. Space these 4″ apart for smaller windows, and up to 10″ for larger ones. Push them into the wood solidly with a putty knife. See, you’re learning how to fix a broken window! Now, apply your glazing compound. You can use the type that requires a caulking gun if you find that easier than applying directly with a putty knife. Work the glazing in with a putty knife at a 45-degree angle or a wet finger. Small molded caps can be bought to help you achieve a clean and smooth look with the glazing, although you may be content enough that your broken window is fixed! Let this cure for a week or so before painting.

Replace a broken window – ALUMINUM OR VINYL
Here are just a couple points to follow that differ from replacing a broken window in a wooden frame. Instead of glazier’s points holding the window down, you may have to remove beveled strips that are secured to the outer edges of the broken glass. Seal and secure the new window with sealing mastic (that’s made for windows), around the interior perimeter. If you don’t have these strips, your frame may have a U-shaped channel that can’t be pried off.  Take your broken window apart by loosening screws on one side and pulling that side off. Pull out the broken glass you’re replacing along with the vinyl gasket going around it. Reverse what you just did with the new pane of glass, and your broken window is fixed.