How to Replace an Old Window Without Removing the Frame
Replacing a glass window pane in old wooden window frames can be done yourself on standard or regular size windows. Hiring a handyman to replace it for you can be costly, but doing it yourself can save money. You don't even have to remove the frame in order to replace the glass. Add this to your list of do-it-yourself projects. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Glass Pane cut to size
- Measuring tape
- Flat Head Screwdriver or carpenter's knife
- Clear Silicone Caulk
- Caulk Gun
- Small ¼ round dowels, cut to size if needed
- Wide Masking Tape
Instructions
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1
Remove any screens you may have. Measure the size of the window pane and make sure your piece of glass you purchase is approximately 1/16 of an inch smaller than the opening where the glass will go. You don't want to have to force the glass into place and risk breaking the new glass.
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2
Attach the masking tape to the outside of the window in an X pattern. This will keep any broken pieces from falling and possibly cutting you.
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3
Working on the outside of the window, take the carpenter's knife and scrape away any glue or caulking from the edges of the wooden dowel.
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4
With the carpenter's knife or flat head screwdriver, carefully place the edge of the knife in between the glass and wood dowel and work the dowel loose. You will need to do this step up and down all the dowels. Sometimes the dowels will break since they are usually weathered. ¼ round dowels are typically used, but you can take one of the broken pieces to the lumber yard and they will get you the same size dowel you have on your windows. Carefully remove the old glass and discard.
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5
Clean all surfaces thoroughly by brushing any debris and dirt away and scraping any leftover old caulking.
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6
Apply a thin coating of caulk with the caulk gun to one side of the new glass around the edges. Place the new glass into the frame with the caulk on the inside.
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7
Apply another thin strip of caulking to the outside of the glass, place the dowels back into place and press gently into the caulk. Scrap any excess caulk off with the putty knife or screwdriver.
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Tips & Warnings
Use rolled putty instead of caulk
