How to Replace a Broken Window

Steps for Replacing a Window Glass

If you are certain that your window does not need to be completely replaced, then repairing a broken glass window should be done with caution to avoid injuries or further damage to the window.

Remove the Glass

To begin, scrape the putty off the pane of the broken window with a putty knife or utility knife to make it easier to remove the glass from the frame. Pull out any nails or clips that are stuck in the window pane with pliers. After that, tape the area where the glass has broken. Put on your gloves and carefully pull out all of the glass pieces from the frame until there are none left. If you come across any stubborn pieces that are difficult to remove, wiggle them until they come loose from the frame.

Window Measurement

Measuring the height, width, and opening of your window will allow you to have a piece cut at a home improvement store. To make the installation of the glass easier, subtract 1/8-inch from your measurements.

Glass should be cut

If you already have a sheet of glass, you can cut it yourself. Place the glass on a flat surface and mark the area with a permanent marker using a metal straightedge to guide where the glass should be cut. Run a glass cutter along the side of the straightedge, cutting each section of glass in one pass. If you buy a sheet of glass from a home improvement store, you can ask them to cut it for you.

Glass should be replaced

Apply glazing or putty around the window frame to keep the glass in place. Insert the glass into the frame and press it against the glazing or putty to keep it from moving. Apply more glazing or putty around the new glass after it's been secured. You may need to touch up the paint on the window frame once finished.

Costs of Do-It-Yourself Window Glass Repair

If you want to do a window glass repair yourself, the replacement glass will cost between $3 and $12 per square foot, depending on whether it's single or double glazed. If you prefer to hire a professional, a single pane window will cost around $200, a double pane window will cost between $200 and $400, and a triple pane window will cost between $600 and $1,100.

The Advantages of Hiring a Glass Window Repair Contractor

Although it is possible to do glass window repairs yourself, there are several advantages to hiring a window glass repair contractor. The following are some compelling reasons to hire an experienced contractor instead.

Cost Effectiveness

Because professionals are familiar with various types of windows, they are best positioned to select the glass that is appropriate for your project. Window contractors are also less likely to make costly mistakes than an inexperienced homeowner, so they are less likely to need to purchase additional materials. This can make hiring a professional much more cost effective.

Easy Disposal

Repairing a glass window can generate a lot of waste, and a novice may not know how to deal with it. A professional is well-versed in the safest methods of waste removal, ensuring that no glass fragments are left in the home, endangering your family or pets.

Tool Accessibility

Even if you have a glass cutter, a professional will have state-of-the-art equipment that is appropriate for specific types of glass, which a DIYer is unlikely to have. Hiring a contractor ensures that the proper tools are used, which can make the job more efficient and prevent injuries.

We can assist you in finding the right contractor for window glass repair.