French Door Window Pane Replacement
French doors are beautiful, but broken glass can pose a safety hazard. In addition, it can let heated and cooled air to escape your home and increase the cost of energy.
Fortunately, you don't have to replace the entire door if just one glass pane is broken. With a few simple tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can repair damaged windows on french doors.
Repairing a Cracked or Broken Glass Pane
Glass can be cracked by a pebble that is thrown from your lawnmowers, or drinks that are placed too hard on a table with a glass top, or even a vase that was knocked over by an inquisitive cat. If the crack is very small, super glue like Loctite Glass Glue or Gorilla Glue can help fill it in and make the crack less noticeable. If the crack is larger than one inch, or if your double-paned windows are losing their seals, it's best to replace the glass.
If you'd like to repair the glass by yourself, you can remove the paint seams from the frame's edges, and then trim with a utility blade. Then, remove the molding using the putty tool. If nails hold the molding in position remove them using the help of a brad nailer.
After you've removed the molding, spread the cardboard sheets on the floor to protect the rest of the door. Remove any remaining broken glass from the frame. Then, cover the fracture on both sides with packing or masking tape. This will stop the crack from spreading when you fix it.
Before you apply the epoxy to the broken glass, clean it thoroughly. This eliminates any dirt or debris and aids in bonding the repair adhesive more effectively to the glass. Let the epoxy dry for a couple of hours after applying it. You may have to apply several coats of epoxy, if the crack is extremely deep or has been broken into pieces.
The two-part epoxy dries fast so it's essential to prepare your work area before you begin applying the adhesive. You'll need a container to mix the hardener and resin and an object to stir the adhesive.
It's possible to complete very basic french door window pane replacements on the own, however if you aren't confident with DIY projects or have more complex windows, it's recommended to hire an expert. A Glazier or window replacement business can help you choose an attractive, safe glass pane for your French doors and install it quickly.
How to Cut a New Glass Piece
French windows are very popular with both business and home owners who wish to add a touch of style to their buildings. These windows can be fully opened to allow the inside of a structure to be seen from the outside. They also provide an uninterrupted view that is not obstructed by walls or structures. Although they may not be suitable for children' rooms because of their openness however, they're great for common areas of the building where stylish accents are needed.
For those with the ability to perform a work yourself replacing a window is a simple task. The most important aspect of the job is making sure the glass is the right size prior to you cut it. This means taking the dimensions of the broken glass and making sure that you have enough glass to replacement before you begin cutting it. Once you have the right size glass, you can start the process of taking out and replacing the old piece.
It is recommended that you wear safety gloves and glasses to ensure protection during this procedure. After the old glass has been removed, you'll need to create a clean work surface, such as a large table with a flat top or a section of plywood. To avoid scratches, the surface must be padded using cardboard or up to five sheets of newspaper. You'll also require a good, sharp cutter (not too recent, but not too dull) and some machine lubricant for the cutter.
The best way to cut glass is to use a diamond-tipped cutter. The tool cuts the glass rather than slices through it, allowing you to snap the glass in an unbroken line. If you're using a glass that has been tempered it is required to score the glass twice before snapping it.
If you are working with a curved piece of glass, you will need to make an outline of the curve prior to. You can trace the curve on the glass using cardboard or plastic sheet. Then, you can use breaking pliers to carefully remove the small sections of the curved area until you have a straight and even curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows let more light into your home, and they offer a great view to the outside. They are also energy efficient and help in preventing drafts. The cost can be quite expensive. Additionally, it could be difficult to find replacement glass for the French window pane. You can repair a broken pane of glass without having to purchase the door. This will save you money, time and frustration.
The first step in replacing the French window pane is to remove the frame around the glass that has been damaged from the door frame. This will let you discern the gap and figure out how much glass you need. Once you have removed the trim, you can begin cutting a new piece of glass to fit. Make sure you wear safety gloves and goggles to provide protection from any sharp edges.
Find the height and width of the gap inside the frame to ensure you have the exact measurements for your glass piece. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurements and cut a safety glass piece to the appropriate size. Safety glass is more durable and won't break as easily as regular annealed glass. It also offers some UV control and reduces reflection, making it an ideal choice for French doors.
Test-fit the new glass pane in the frame before putting it in. If there are any gaps you can fill them using caulk or wood putty. You may need to sand down the area where the glass pane meets with the frame.
You can buy replacement glass from the hardware store or in a glass shop. Install the new pane and then place the trim around the door frame. Paint or sand it if needed.
If you're looking to replace one or all of the French windows in your home, you need to do it with care and in accordance with local building codes and regulations. If you don't feel comfortable doing the job yourself, think about hiring a professional glazier or handyman. Be sure to think ahead, obtain multiple quotes and review the company's background before hiring them.
Refinishing the Frame
When replacing a french door window pane, it is possible to choose to replace the entire frame. This can enhance the appearance of the window and save you money on repairs. You may also select the most energy efficient or aesthetically pleasing kind of glass for your french doors.
If you are planning to refinish the frame, make sure to thoroughly clean it prior to starting. This will get rid of any dirt or grease that may have built up on the frame's surface. This makes it easier to paint and help prevent bleed-through from the new glass.
You should also take the time to sand the wood's surface before painting. This will smooth out the finish and ensure that the new paint sticks well to the wood. You can use wood filler after sanding to fill in any gaps or holes before painting. Additionally, you can use a high-quality oil-based primer to aid the paint to stick to the surface.
Before you begin to work on a broken or cracked window pane, it is important to put on safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from sharp shards of glass. Once you've done this you can begin removing the old trim. If you're using a utility knife, you'll need to cut seams of paint at the joints and along the frame. After removing the trim you can verify that the window panes were installed correctly and make any adjustments.
Once the new pane is in place, you'll need to install the glazing points back inside the frame. Then you will need to apply caulk around the edges of the frame to seal it, and ensure that the new glazing doesn't leak. Once the caulk has dried it is time to replace the stops and nail the brad nails back in place.
french door repairs near me can replace a French door pane on their own. If, however, you're not a DIY-er or have a limited knowledge of home improvement, it might be better to leave the job to professionals. Contact Brennan Enterprises today to learn more about how our team can assist you in transforming your home. We can help you choose the right windows for your home, and offer high-quality service.