How to Replace a Broken Windowpane
Crash! “Oops!” Are these familiar sounds in your household? A broken windowpane is a common occurrence, especially if your kids love to play ball. If you have double-glazing, you’ll probably have to get a glass professional in to replace the broken window, but if you have single glazed windows, it’s easy to do it yourself.
Buy your new glass and putty before you remove the broken pane. Seal the hole with a sheet of plastic if necessary.
Step Guide to Repair
- Measure the window frame. To find exactly where the frame starts under the putty, remove a small amount of putty from the middle of each side of the windowpane.
- Deduct 1/4 inch from the width and height measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the glass and frame.
- When buying the glass, specify the thickness needed, or request glass for a domestic window.
- Most hardware stores sell putty. If you have some putty in your garage that has gone a little hard due to age, you can freshen it up by putting it into the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds or adding a little linseed oil.
- Standing on the outside of the window, spread newspaper on the ground to collect as much glass as possible. Remove the broken pane carefully from the frame. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Scrape off all the old putty using a sharp knife or chisel. Clean the window frame well, removing any dust.
- Knead the new putty in your hands for a minute or two.
- Press 1/8 inch of putty around the inside of the frame where the glass will rest.
- Place the glass into the frame, making sure it is central and not touching the frame. Press the edges of the glass into the putty. Don’t push on the center of the windowpane or you may crack it.
- Apply more putty onto the outside of the glass, shaping it with a putty knife, small trowel, or an ordinary kitchen knife.
- Try to get the edge of the putty at the same level as the window frame on the other side of the glass, using your knife to trim off the excess. If in doubt, check another window to see what it looks like.
- Use a little water to smooth the putty if necessary.
- Leave the putty for about 7 to 10 days to harden and dry.
- Clean the glass thoroughly with a soft dry cloth. Use a little liquid detergent to remove the grease marks.
- Paint the putty and the frame, using enamel paint. Take the paint line slightly onto the glass as this helps to seal the window.
You’ve now replaced your broken windowpane. Think of all the money you’ve saved!
*This information is a guide and should always take complete precaution before attempting at you own risk or call a professional.
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