How to Fix a Broken Window

Broken windows happen periodically, especially when you have children playing in the yard. Window glass repair is a handy skill to have. Homeowners may need to use this skill several times, so learning to fix a broken windown is worth your while.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Work gloves
• Glass
• Putty
• Putty knife
• Screwdriver

1. Measure the glass pane you need to replace while it's still in the frame. Use this measurement as a reference size in case you are unable to get an accurate final measurement.

2. Put on a pair of gloves and begin to remove the broken glass from the window frame. Pull up or slide out any pieces from the frame that have come loose. Put the pieces in a box so you can easily dispose of them after you fix the window.

3. Remove the frame by sliding it up and out. Take it apart outdoors. Remove the screws holding the frame together and pull the frame apart. Remove any remaining glass and putty using a putty knife or screwdriver. Put the frame back together and make the final measurement. Keep the rubber seal or gasket.

4. Give the glass retailer the measurements. Have them cut the new glass 1/16 of an inch smaller than the opening on each side. Lean the new pane of glass up against a wall in your work area until needed.

5. Reassemble the frame around the new pane of glass. Include the rubber seal and put putty around the opening to hold the glass in place.

Tips & Warnings

• To avoid cutting yourself, always wear gloves when dealing with sharp pieces of glass.
• These steps are for single glass windows. Double-panel insulated windows may need the expertise of a professional.

[aspengold]

on 10/26/2008 Hi,
I have a thermal pane glass unit which has clouded up and needs replaced. It is a fixed unit and I’m having trouble getting the u-shaped “stop” out from around the glass. Is there a special tool I should buy? What am I doing wrong? It looks like it should be easy. I have four of these to replace in my house. My name’s Dan and my email is [e-mail]. I would appreciate any advice.
Thanks