The windows installed in houses are in most cases fragile, they can break easily, regardless of their position. In such situations, they should be repaired as soon as possible to reduce the risk of injury to the occupants. To achieve this, you need to apply yourself well and, if necessary, call on a professional. Here are the different essential steps to ensure the repair of a broken window.
Who can fix a broken window?
Repairing a broken window is an operation that can be done by the homeowner, although it is a rather delicate process. Beforehand, a person who wants to take care of the repair of a broken window must have DIY skills. This is an essential asset for the success of the operation. In addition to this skill, he must follow tutorials in order to know the steps of glass repair.
In case you don’t have any DIY knowledge, just call Doors center. In this way, you have a guarantee on the quality of the work that will be done. The repair of the broken glass will be done by professionals, with the appropriate equipment. From a quote, you have a precise idea of the amount to be paid for the intervention.
What are the steps involved in repairing a broken window?
There are steps involved in repairing broken glass. These are all as important as each other. It should be noted that the steps to be followed by an individual are practically identical to those of professionals in the field.
Removal of the broken glass
Repairing a broken window always starts with removing the broken glass. It is a preliminary work that conditions the rest of the operation. Before performing this task, it is imperative to wear gloves. This is a safety measure that aims to reduce the risk of injury.
As soon as the gloves are actually worn, it will be necessary to remove any glass present at the level of the window. To make this work easier, you can disassemble the frame associated with it. It is after that that you can move on to the next step.
The application of a new sealant
The application of a new sealant follows the removal of the broken glass, in the repair process. To get started, you need to remove the old one that was applied to the window or door. This can be facilitated by the use of a chisel or knife.
You then need to knead the putty, so that it has a rope shape. The latter must be around 2mm thick. In case of overflow, you can remove the excess. This will allow the glass to sit better in the frame.
Replacement of broken glass
The last step is the actual replacement of the broken glass. Again, measurements at the window or door should be taken. If the glass is too big or too small, it won’t fit in the frame. Once this work is done, you can apply it on top of the sealant initially applied.
It will have to be pressed down to allow the glass to come into contact with the material. Be careful not to use too much force as this can damage the new installation. The latter is then reinforced with nails fixed from top to bottom. Finally, a new coat of sealant is applied to cover the ends. You then need to let it dry for several days. After this waiting time, your broken window is officially repaired.
What to do while waiting for the broken window to be repaired?
A broken window in a house can be a source of insecurity for residents. While waiting for it to be repaired, there are alternatives you can use. Their effectiveness is of course temporary, but greatly beneficial.
First of all, you can opt for plywood to cover the window with the broken glass. It is an ideal tool to limit exposure to glass breakage. With the help of a few screws, you will need to securely fix the plywood at the level of the area in question. The main advantage is that you don’t need an exorbitant budget to successfully acquire it.
If you don’t want to use plywood, you can turn to polyethylene film. Many users testify to its waterproofness. This way, water will not be able to enter the house during the period before the glass is repaired. In addition, it guarantees good thermal efficiency in the room where it is installed.
Under no circumstances should these alternatives take the place of the actual repair work.
Which glass should be used to replace broken glass?
Repairing a broken window involves the use of suitable materials to ensure the longevity of the installation. This involves the choice of a glass, which is essential for the completion of the work.
Stained glass
The first category of glass to be used during the repair of broken glass is stained glass. The latter is quite popular because of the result obtained once it is installed. It is a float glass that can be customized through added elements. A variety of design options are available to you.
Crystal glass
Crystal glass is another option for repairing damaged glass . Its peculiarity is that it is very resistant when installed. In addition, the cutting is not at all complex, unlike other types of glass available on the market. However, you will have to prepare a large budget to get possession of the crystal glass. The results in terms of performance are commensurate with the price to be paid to acquire it.
Safety glass
Safety glass is one of the most recommended to replace a broken window. First of all, it is a material designed to withstand shocks. In the case of the latter being very violent, the glass breaks down into small pieces. Thus, the probability of injury is more than reduced.
