How to Repair a Broken Window

Bad weather, break-ins caused by throwing a broken bottle, and baseball season are the major causes of broken windows. Always check first if your homeowner’s policy or landlord will cover damage.  Many times coverage will require professional repair only.

Small single pane windows are an easy do-it-yourself repair. You will need:

•  
  • replacement glass (try to match)
  • heavy work gloves
  • safety goggles
  • glazing compound
  • metal glazier points
  • masking or duct tape
  • a 5-in-1 tool

Don gloves and goggles. Diagonally tape broken glass. Use the 5-in-1 tool to loosen old glazing compound around the glass and to remove existing metal points. Carefully ease out broken glass and discard properly. Thoroughly clean out old glazing compound. Make a thin rope of new compound and continuously line edge of opening. Press new glass pane into frame against compound. Install new points with the 5-in-1 tool every 4-6 inches being careful not to crack new glass. Roll another thin rope of the glazing compound and press firmly around pane. Using the 5-in-1 tool, smooth compound and remove excess.  When compound is thoroughly dry, paint to match.

Large glass panes are difficult to handle. The new energy efficient windows need special ordering. Check with the window manufacturer on best solution or get out the trusty phonebook to find a professional glazier in your area.