French Door Window Pane Replacement
French doors are beautiful, but broken glass could pose a risk to your safety. Additionally, it could allow heated and cooled air to escape from your home, which can increase the cost of energy.
Fortunately, you don't have to replace the entire door if just one glass pane is damaged. With a few simple tools and a little elbow grease, you can repair a broken french door window.
How to repair a broken or cracked Pane of Glass
A lawnmower's pebble that falls through your window, a glass of water placed too hard on the glass-topped coffee table, or a beloved vase that has been tipped over by your curious cat are all examples of things that could crack glass. Super glue, such as Loctite Glass Glue and Gorilla Glue can be used to fill in small cracks. This will make the break less visible. If the crack is more than one inch, or if double-paned windows have lost their seals, it's recommended to replace the glass.
If you're looking to repair the cracked glass by yourself, first take out any paint seams along the edges of the frame. You can trim the frame using a utility knife. After that, take the molding off with a putty knife. If nails hold the molding in position remove them using a brad nailer.
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. Tape the crack on both ends using masking tape or packing tape. This will stop the crack from spreading while you attempt to repair it.
Before applying the epoxy to the damaged glass, make sure you clean it thoroughly. This will remove any dirt or other debris and will help the repair adhesive stick better to the damaged glass. Let the epoxy dry for a few hours after applying it. If it's a deep crack or has broken into pieces, you may need to apply more than one coat of epoxy.
Two-part epoxy is fast drying and you'll need to prepare your workspace and ready before you start applying the adhesive. You'll need a container in order to mix the hardener and resin as well as an instrument to stir the adhesive.
It's possible to complete very basic French door window pane replacements on your own, but if you aren't comfortable working on DIY projects or have more complex windows, it's recommended to call in a professional. A glazier can assist you select a new glass pane that is safe and attractive for your French doors. They can also put it in place it quickly.
How to Cut a New Glass Piece
French windows are very popular with home and business owners who want to add a touch of style to their home. These windows fling open completely, allowing the inside of the building to be seen from outside. They also offer views that aren't blocked by structures or walls. Although they may not be the best choice for kids' rooms due to their openness however, they're great in common areas of the building, where stylish accents are required.
If you're able do some DIY work, replacing window panes is a straightforward task. The most important aspect of the task is to make sure that the glass is of the correct size before you cut it. It is essential to measure the broken glass and ensure that you have enough glass to replace it prior to cutting. Once you have the proper size glass then you can begin the process of getting rid of the old piece and replacing it with the new one.
It is recommended that you wear protective gloves and glasses for protection during the process. After the old glass is removed, you'll need to prepare a clean surface for work which could include a large flat table or a section of plywood. To avoid scratches, the surface should be padded using cardboard or four to five sheets of newspaper. The next step is to get a high-quality cutter (preferably not too new however, not too dull also) and some machine oil for the cutter.
A diamond-tipped glass cutter is the best tool to use for cutting pieces of glass that has been tempered. This tool scores instead of cuts the glass and allows you to snap it in a straight line. If you are using a glass that is tempered it is required to score the glass twice before snapping it.
First, you'll need to create a template for the curve when you are working on a glass piece that is curved. You can make use of a plastic sheet or cardboard to trace the outline of the curve onto the glass. Then you can break pliers with care to remove the small sections of the curved area until you have a smooth and even curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows let more light into your home, and provide a stunning view of the outdoors. They are also energy efficient, and help in preventing drafts. However, the price could be high. It is also difficult to find replacement glass for French window panes. You can replace a damaged glass pane without having to purchase an entirely new door. This could save you money, time and frustration.
The first step to replace the French window pane is to remove the trim around the broken glass from the door frame. This will let you discern the gap and figure out how much glass you will need. After the trim is removed, you can begin cutting new glass pieces to fit. Make sure you wear safety gloves and goggles to ensure protection from sharp edges.
Take measurements of the width and height of the gap inside the frame to ensure you have a precise measurement for your glass piece. Subtract 1/8 inch from these measurements and cut a piece safety glass to that size. Safety glass is more durable and will not shatter as easily as regular annealed glass. It also offers some UV protection and reduces glare making it a good option for French doors.
When you are ready to put in the new glass pane put it in the frame and then test it to ensure that it fits correctly. Fill any gaps with caulk or wood putty. You may have to sand down the area where the glass pane meets with the frame.
You can buy replacement glass from an hardware store or glass shops. Install the new glass, then reinstall the trim around the door frame. Paint or sand it as necessary.
If you're planning to replace one or all the French window panes in your home, it's crucial to do so carefully and in compliance with the local building codes and regulations. Consider hiring a handyman or glazier in case you aren't confident performing the task yourself. Be sure to prepare ahead, request multiple quotes and review the background of the company prior to hiring them.
Refinishing the Frame
You could decide to replace a French door window frame after replacing a pane. This will improve the look of the window as well as save you money in repairs. You can also choose the most energy efficient or aesthetically pleasing style of glass for your french doors.
If you are planning to refinish the frame, make sure you clean it thoroughly before beginning. 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.
It is also recommended to take the time to sand the wood's surface before painting. This will smooth the finish and make sure that the new paint is well adhered to the wood. Repair My Windows And Doors can be used after sanding to fill any holes or gaps prior to painting. Finally, you can use a high-quality oil-based primer to help the new paint adhere to the surface.
To protect yourself from sharp glass shards, you should put on gloves and safety goggles prior to working on a cracked or broken window pane. Once you've done this, you can start removing 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 the trim is removed, you will be able to check if the window pane was installed correctly and if any adjustments have to be made.
After the new pane is in place, you will have to put the glazing points back inside the frame. The next step is to apply caulk on the frame's edges to seal it and ensure the new glazing doesn't leak. Once the caulk is dry then you can put in your stops and nail again the brad nails.
Replacing the French door's window is a job that a lot of homeowners can complete on their own. If you are not a DIYer or have little knowledge of home improvement projects, it is best to leave this job to the professionals. Brennan Enterprises can help you transform your home. Contact us today to find out more. We can help you select the right windows for your home, and provide quality service.