Can You Replace The Broken Glass In Your Wooden Window As A DIY Project?

Old wooden windows have a way of getting broken, especially when you have kids in the house. Knowing how to address this problem properly can help you keep your windows in good shape. This FAQ will help guide you through the process.

Can you replace the broken glass in your wooden window as a DIY project?

Yes, replacing glass in wooden windows is a good DIY project for people who have the proper tools and who are comfortable working with their hands.

What tools will you need to complete this project?

To complete this project, you will need:

• Leather work gloves
• Protective eye glasses
• Painter's multi-tool
• Tape measure
• Replacement glass
• Glazing points
• Glazing putty

You may also want to use a tarp, and might need a step-stool to access your window.

What's the process for replacing the broken pane?

Standing outside your home at the broken window, start by removing the broken shards. Don't let the broken shards fall into the grass around the edge of the window. If necessary, lay down a tarp beneath the window to catch pieces of glass and prevent them from getting on the ground. Wear your protective work gloves and eye glasses throughout the entire process. Scrape out the old putty around the glass using the pointed edge of the multi-tool, then use the measuring tape to measure the opening in the frame. Purchase glass that is slightly smaller than the opening in the window frame so that the glass will fit in the window but not fall through.

When the frame has been completely cleaned of old putty and glass shards, place the replacement glass in the opening in the frame, and use glazing points to hold the glass in place. Use the multi-tool to push the glazing points into the wood, then coat the edges of the pane with a bead of glazing putty. Use the multi-tool to smooth the glazing putty so that it looks natural against the edge of the wooden window frame. Wait for the glazing putty to dry before painting it the same color as the rest of the window frame.

What if the windows are on the second floor?

Unless you have access to the exterior of the window via an upstairs balcony, the safest and easiest way to address this problem is to pay for professional glass replacement.

For more information about how you can replace the glass in your broken windows, or to get a quote for glass replacement of an upstairs window, call a professional window repair company such as Action Glass today.