Replacing a broken window pane is one of the most common window repairs done on an older home. As you may already know, it’s due to how fragile glass can be. It is a real pain to take down the entire window too for just one piece of glass. But, what if we told you there was a simpler way?
Did you know that there is a way to replace a pane without removing the window? If you answered no, allow us to show you how!
To start, you’ll want to get your measurements! We recommend using the FastCap Measuring Tape for this type of RIY. To get accurate measurements for your new pane of glass, you’ll want to measure the opening by starting and ending at the wood and glazing meets. As always, make sure to measure twice!
Next, you’ll want to remove the old glazing or silicone with a 3/8" Chisel at the seam. It may give some resistance, but will eventually all come off.
Once all of the glazing has been removed, you’ll need to adjust your measurements for the glass instead of the opening. To do so, you’ll take your measurements from earlier and reduce them by 1/8” and not the 1/16” shown in the video. So if you had the exact same measurements in the video, the opening being 32” x 20 1/8”, you’ll end up with 31 7/8” x 20” for your glass measurements. Just make sure to measure twice and only cut once! We highly encourage that you test fit the glass before proceeding into the next step. If you aren’t comfortable with cutting the glass yourself, the replacement piece of glass can be cut at your local home center.
Now, you’ll want to make sure the glass bed is cleared of any remaining debris with the 3/8” Chisel, then you will be glazing the back bedding to prepare for the pane. We use the professional Sarco Type M Multi-Glaze putty for all glazing we do and can be purchased from our online shop! The putty will help create a long-term seal. To smooth out, we use Lamson 3/4" Bent Knife which can also be purchased from our online shop! After the back bedding is all glazed, you can set your glass in the opening and pin the glass. To ease the process of pinning, we have used CRL Diamond point Driver #1 Points. You can use the Red Devil 1710 Glazing Push Points as well! Once it’s pinned, you can finish up by glazing the window!
In the event that you are replacing a pane that isn’t ground level, we recommend using the Little Giant Ladder and get the Ladder Stabilizer to prevent falls. Be safe and cautious if you are working on a second floor.
If you desire to take down the window instead, here is a video of Tom Silva from This Old Home replacing a broken pane in a basement window to get you on the right track. This video also shows how to cut the glass for your window!
If you happen to come across a different old window problem and want some advice, check out our Common Window Problems Blog. We have identified 5 common issues you can find on your wood windows and provide solutions to each issue! You can also email us at info@woodwindowrescue.com or leave a comment below for more information!
Have any questions? Leave us a comment below!