How to Cut Glass From an Insulated Window

Insulated glass is the same as double-paned glass. It consists of two glass panes back to back to make sure a window is insulated, secured and tightly fit. In reality, it is not possible to cut glass from an insulated glass window without using rather pricey tools---though it is possible to break the glass and remove the remaining pieces with a glass cutter (see Warnings).

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gloves
• Protective eye-wear
• Tarp
• Insulated glass window
• Glass cutter
• Hammer or chisel

1. Set up a tarp underneath the insulated glass window. Put on the protective eye-wear and thick gloves. It is important to protect yourself, as well as your floor, when glass is cut in case it shatters.

2. Pick a place in the middle of the insulated window's first pane of glass. Place the back of the hammer, or the chisel, at this point. Firmly tap against the glass until cracks start to form. Once larger cracks appear, keep tapping until glass begins to fall out of the window in chunks. Remove large chunks of glass from the first pane of insulated glass.

3. Cut through the larger pieces of glass with the glass cutters; remove pieces from the pane.

4. Pry out the larger glass pieces stuck to the sides of the pane (make sure you're wearing gloves). Place the pieces in a safe place where you won't get cut or step on them, such as in a bucket.

5. Chip away the glass carefully so that the second pane of glass is not affected.

Tips & Warnings

• Be cautious when working with glass pieces so you do not harm yourself. Wear proper protective materials such as thick gloves and eye wear.