French Door Window Pane Replacement
French doors are beautiful but broken glass can pose a safety hazard. It also allows heated or cooled air to escape your home, thereby increasing the cost of energy.
Fortunately, you don't need to replace the entire door if only one glass pane is broken. With just a few tools and a little elbow grease, you can repair damaged windows on french doors.
How to Repair a Broken or Cracked Pane of Glass
A pebble from the lawnmower that flies through your window, a drink set down too hard on the glass-topped coffee table, or a favourite vase that has been tipped over by your curious cat are all things that could crack glass. Super glue, such as Loctite Glass Glue and Gorilla Glue can be used to fill in small cracks. This makes the break appear less noticeable. If the crack is greater than an inch wide, but if you notice that your double-pane windows are losing their seal, it's time to replace the glass.
If you're looking to fix the broken glass by yourself, first take out any paint seams around the edges of the frame and trim using an utility knife. Then, take the molding off with a putty knife. If you have nails that are holding the molding in place, make use of a brad nailer to remove them.
After taking the molding off, place cardboard sheets on the work surface to protect the rest of the door. Remove any broken glass from the frame. Then, apply tape to the crack on both sides with masking tape or packing tape. This will prevent the crack from spreading while you repair it.
Before you apply the epoxy to the cracked glass, carefully clean it. This gets rid of any dirt or debris that assists in ensuring that the repair adhesive bonds more effectively to the glass. Let the epoxy dry for a few hours after you have applied it. If the crack is very deep crack or broken into pieces, you might require more than one coat of epoxy.
The two-part epoxy dries fast, so it's important to prepare your work area before you begin applying the adhesive. You'll need a container to mix the resin and hardener together as well as an instrument to stir the adhesive.
You can attempt some basic window replacements for your French doors, however it's best to consult a professional if you're not at ease with DIY, or the windows are more complicated. french doors repair or window replacement company can assist you in choosing an attractive, safe glass pane for your French doors and install it quickly.
Cutting a New Piece of Glass
French windows are very popular with both business and home owners who want to add a touch of class to their buildings. They open completely, allowing the interior of the building to be viewed from the outside, and they also provide an uninterrupted view that isn't hindered by walls or structures. These windows are not ideal for rooms for children due to the way they open. However they're perfect for common areas where a fashionable accent is needed.
If you're able do some DIY work, replacing window panes is a straightforward task. The most important aspect of the job is to make sure that the glass is of the right size before you cut it. This means taking the dimensions of the broken glass and ensuring that you have enough glass to replacement before you begin cutting it. Once you have the proper size glass, you can begin the process of removing and replacing the old piece.
Wear protective glasses and gloves to protect yourself during this process. After the old glass is removed, you'll have to prepare a clean surface for work which could include a large table with a flat top or a piece of wood. To avoid scratches, the surface must be covered with a layer of cardboard or four to five sheets of newspaper. Then, you'll need an excellent cutter (preferably not too new but not dull neither) and some machine oil for the cutter.
A diamond-tipped glass cutter is the most effective tool to use for cutting pieces of glass that is tempered. The tool cuts the glass instead of cutting through it, which allows you to snap the glass along an unbroken line. If you're using glass that is tempered it is necessary to score it twice before you can snap the piece.
You will need to first create a template of the curve if you're working on a piece of glass that is curved. You can trace the curve on the glass using cardboard or plastic sheet. You can then break pliers and carefully take small sections of the curve until you get an even, smooth curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows let more light into your home, and provide a stunning view of the outside. They are energy-efficient and help stop drafts from entering your home. However, the price could be high. It is also difficult to locate replacement glass for French window panes. You can replace a broken glass pane without the need to purchase a new door. This can save you money, time and frustration.
The first step in replacing the French window pane is to remove the trim around the broken glass from the door frame. This will allow you to have an accurate view of the gap and determine the amount of replacement glass you need. After you have removed the trim, you can begin cutting a new piece glass to fit. Make sure you wear safety gloves and goggles for protection from sharp edges.
Measure the height and the width of the gap to ensure that you have the exact measurements for the glass you are planning to purchase. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurements and cut the safety glass piece to that size. Safety glass is more dense than regular annealed, and won't shatter as easily. It also provides UV control and decreases glare, making it an ideal option for French doors.
Test the new glass pane inside the frame before putting it in. If there are any gaps that aren't filled, you can fill them in with wood putty or caulk. You may have to remove the area where the glass pane is in contact with the frame.
You can purchase replacement glass from a hardware or glass shop. Once you have the new pane, you can re-install the trim on the door frame, and paint or sand the frame as needed.
It's important that you replace your French windows carefully and in accordance with local building codes. If you're not comfortable doing the job yourself, think about hiring a professional handyman or glazier. Plan ahead, get several quotes and research the history of the company prior to deciding to choose them to work for you.
Refinishing the Frame
When replacing a French door window pane, it is possible to choose to replace the entire frame. This can improve the appearance of the window as well as save you money in repairs. You may also select the most energy efficient or attractive type of glass for your french doors.
If you are planning to refinish the frame, make sure that you thoroughly clean it before beginning. This will eliminate any dirt, grime or grease that has built up on the surface. This will make it easier to paint, and also prevent the glass from bleeding.
You should also take the time to smooth the wood's surface prior to painting. This will smoothen the finish and ensure that new paint adheres to the wood. You can use wood filler after sanding to fill in any holes or gaps prior to painting. Finally, you can use an oil-based primer that is of the highest quality to aid the paint to adhere to the surface.
To safeguard yourself from glass shards that are sharp to protect yourself, wear safety glasses and gloves prior to working on a cracked or broken window pane. After you have done so then you can begin to remove the old trim. If you're using a utility knife, you will need to cut seams of paint across the frame as well as at the joints of the trim. After removing the trim, you can verify that the window panes were installed correctly and make any necessary adjustments.
Once the new pane is in place, you'll have to insert the glazing points back inside the frame. Then you will need to apply caulk to the edges of the frame to seal it and ensure that the new glazing isn't leaking. After the caulk has dried, you can replace your stops and nail again the brad nails.
Many homeowners can repair the French door pane on their own. If you're not a DIYer or have little experience in home improvement It is best to leave the job to professionals. Brennan Enterprises can help you transform your home. Contact us today to learn more. We can help you find the perfect windows for your home, and offer fast, quality service.