How to Replace a Broken Windowpane

Do you have windows that are letting in more air than they should? With a little patience and care you can repair a broken windowpane - it's easier than you might think.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gloves
• Gloves
• Gloves
• Measuring Tapes
• New Windowpanes
• Paints
• Window Glazes
• Blow Dryer Or Heat Guns
• Chisels
• Hammers
• Putty Knives
• Safety Goggles
• Safety Goggles
• Hammers

1. Remove the old glass carefully, wearing gloves and safety goggles. If the pane isn't broken, carefully chip out old glazing (putty used to seal each pane of glass to the frame) and glazing points (small metal anchors used to hold the glass in place until it's glazed) with a small chisel until you can remove the glass. Soften the glazing with a heat gun or even a blow dryer on a high heat setting to help ease this process.

2. Measure the opening, then subtract 1/8 to 3/16 inch from the vertical and horizontal measurements. You don't want the glass to be jammed tightly in the opening.

3. Purchase new glass with the appropriate dimensions. Any glass shop and many hardware stores and lumberyards can cut the glass to the size you need.

4. Set your new glass in place, and use at least two glazing points on each side (more if the opening is larger than 12 inches square). Don't press too hard against the glass, or you may break it.

5. Work the glazing against the glass and the window frame. Smooth it down with a putty knife or a glazing knife, which looks like a putty knife with a bent end.

6. Let the window set for 24 hours before opening it.

7. Paint the glazing to protect it, following the directions the glazing came with. Some manufacturers suggest waiting for several days or even longer before painting.

Tips & Warnings

• Large windowpanes, or broken or cracked windowpanes in metal or vinyl frames, should be left to the pros.
• Be careful with broken glass, and dispose of it properly.

on 11/22/2005 window panes cross boards if they need to be replaced because of dmage or being loose; if loosed obtain a meat thermometer an using water proof glue for ood inject glue into the joints If the wood that holds the window panes are damaged using a drill drill a 3/8 hole into he wood matching both sides then insert a wooded dowel acompanied with wood glue to repair let set and then install glass other option is to remove all the cross boards and go with one size window pane

on 11/22/2005 The new pane should be cut about 1/8" smaller than the opening to allow for cushioning in the putty. Be sure to notice the thickness of the frame on the other side of the pane so the new putty is even with the frame.

on 11/22/2005 To ensure safe removal, cover the entire pane with duct tape and tap gently.

on 11/22/2005 Place duct tape over the entire glass area of the window to be replaced. Then hit it in the center with a hammer to break it without having flying glass. Broken pieces will stay attached to tape for easy disposal into garbage can. Hit from center outward.

on 11/22/2005 Be sure to work the putty with your hands to warm it up. The putty will then be more pliable and will stick better.