How to Cut Window Glass to Size

Window glass that isn't properly fitted may cause accidents.

If you've done woodwork around your house or auto repairs on your car, there's no need to be afraid of cutting glass. Whether you are changing a mirror, adding a glass top to a table or replacing a cracked window, the method of cutting the glass to size is more or less the same. The right tools and just a little practice will help you to become as good with glass as you are with everything you do.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber cloths
• Ruler
• Grease pencil
• Olive oil
• Glasscutter
• Protective gear for face, hands and eyes
• Glass buffer

Instructions

1. Find a flat work surface that is free from dust. Brush off the surface with a microfiber cloth before putting the glass on it.

2. Lay the glass on the work surface. Keep all your tools near you so that you do not have to search for something in between steps.

3. Measure the exact size you need for the window to be. Measure the same size on the piece of glass and draw lines using a marking or grease pencil where you'll cut the glass.

4. Drizzle olive oil around the edges that you marked on the glass. This will make it easier to cut through the glass.

5. Wear protective gear. Hold the straight edge of the ruler steady and score the glass with the glasscutter. Do not try to break through the glass. Try to score the length of the ruler with one steady motion.

6. Hold the glass steadily in one hand, or ask another person with safety gear to hold it, and break it along the scored edge. The piece should break off along the scoring.

7. Score the other three sides of the glass and do not forget to use the oil. Break each side as you finish scoring. Buff with a glass buffer if the edges are not smooth.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice on old unnecessary pieces of glass before trying a regular repair.

• Use all protective gear because glass shards can be hard to find and remove.

References

• Mother Earth News: Cut Costs By Cutting Your Own Glass