French Door Window Pane Replacement
French doors are beautiful but broken glass can pose a safety hazard. Additionally, it could let heated and cooled air to escape your home, which can increase your energy bills.
It is not necessary to replace the entire door if just one pane is damaged. With a few basic tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can repair the broken window of a french door.
Repairing a Cracked or Broken Glass Pane
Glass can crack due to a pebble thrown from your lawnmower, drinking a drink that has been placed too hard on a table that has a glass top or a vase that has been knocked over by an inquisitive cat. If the crack is small, a super glue like Loctite Glass Glue or Gorilla Glue can fill in the crack and make the break less noticeable. If the crack is more than an inch or your double-paned windows are losing their seals, it's recommended to replace the glass.
If you want to try to repair the damaged glass by yourself, first take out any seams of paint along the edges of the frame and trim the frame using a utility knife and then remove the molding with a putty knife. If there are nails anchoring the molding, use a brad nailer to take them out.
After removing the molding, place cardboard sheets on the work surface to protect the remainder of the door. Remove any broken glass that remains from the frame. Next, cover the fracture on both sides with masking tape or packing tape. This will keep the crack from spreading while you try to repair it.
Clean the glass carefully before applying the epoxy. This will remove any debris or dirt and will help the repair adhesive stick better to the cracked glass. Let the epoxy dry for a couple of hours after applying it. If it's a deep crack or has broken into pieces, you may require more than one coat of epoxy.
The two-part epoxy is fast drying, so it's important to prepare your workspace before you begin applying the adhesive. You'll require a container for mixing the resin and the hardener and an object to stir the adhesive.
You can perform some basic window replacements for your French doors, however it is better to contact an expert if you're confident with DIY or if your windows are more complicated. A Glazier or window replacement business can assist you in selecting 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 want to add a touch of style to their buildings. These windows open completely, allowing the interior of the building to be seen from outside. They also provide views that aren't blocked by structures or walls. These windows aren't suitable for rooms for children due to the way they open. However, they are perfect in common areas where a stylish accent is needed.
If you're able do a little DIY work, replacing windows is a straightforward task. Before you begin cutting the glass, it's essential to ensure that the dimensions are correct. This involves taking the measurements of the broken glass and ensuring that you have enough glass to replacement prior to cutting it. Once you have the right size glass then you can begin the process of getting rid of the old piece and putting in the new one.
It is recommended that you wear protective gloves and glasses for protection during this procedure. After the old glass has been removed, you'll need make a clean work surface, such as a large flat table or a piece of wood. The surface should be cushioned with cardboard or five or six sheets of newspaper to prevent scratches. You'll also require a sharp, well-made cutter (not too old, but not too dull) and a lubricant for the machine for the cutter.
A diamond-tipped glass cutter is the best tool to cut pieces of glass that has been tempered. This tool scores instead of cuts the glass, allowing 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 trace the curve on the glass using cardboard or plastic sheet. Then you can use breaking pliers to carefully remove the tiny sections of the curved section until you have a smooth and even curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows allow more light to enter your home, and also provide a great view of the outdoors. They are also energy efficient, and they help to prevent drafts. However, the price could be high. Additionally, it could be difficult to find replacement glass for the French window pane. You can, however, repair a damaged glass pane without the need to purchase an entirely new door. This can save money, time and frustration.
To replace a French window, you must remove the trim from the frame of the door. This will let you discern the gap and figure out how much glass you need. Once the trim has been removed, you can start cutting new glass pieces to fit. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from sharp edges.
Find the height and width of the gap inside the frame to ensure that you have the exact measurements for the glass you are cutting. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurements and cut a safety glass piece to that size. Safety glass is more durable and will not shatter as easily as regular annealed glass. It also resists UV and reduces glare. This makes it a great choice for French doors.
When you are prepared to install the new glass pane, put it in the frame and then test it to make sure it fits correctly. Fill any gaps with caulk or wood putty. You may have to sand the area where the glass pane meets the frame to smooth it out.
You can purchase replacement glass from a hardware store or glass shops. Install the new pane and then put the trim around the door frame. Paint or sand it as needed.
If you're looking to replace one or all of the French window panes in your home, it's important to do it with care and in accordance with the local building codes and regulations. If you're not confident doing the work yourself, consider hiring an expert handyman or glazier. Plan ahead, get several quotes and research the company's history before you choose them to work for you.
Refinishing the Frame
You could decide to replace the French door window frame when replacing a pane. This can improve the look of the window, and save you money on repairs, and allow you to select the most energy efficient or visually pleasing glass type for your french door.
If you do plan to finish the frame, make sure that you thoroughly clean it prior to beginning. This will remove any dirt, grime or grease that has built up on the frame's surfaces. This will make it easier for you to paint and will stop the glass from bleeding.
Sand the wood's surface prior to painting. This will smooth the finish and ensure that the new paint sticks to the wood. You can use wood filler after sanding to fill in any gaps or holes before painting. You can also use an oil-based primer of top quality to ensure that the paint sticks 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 damaged or broken window pane. Once you have done this you can begin to remove the trim from the window frame. If you're using a utility knife it is necessary to cut paint seams at the joints and along the frame. After removing the trim, you can determine if the window panes were put in correctly and make any adjustments.
Install the glazing points into the frame after the new pane has been put in. The next step is to apply caulk to the frame's edges to seal it, and make sure that the new glass does not leak. When replacement french doors is dry it is time to replace your stops and nail again the brad nails.
Replacing the French door's window is a project that many homeowners can do on their own. However, if you are not a skilled DIYer or have a limited knowledge of home renovations, it may be best to delegate the job to experts. Brennan Enterprises can help you transform your house. Contact us today to find out more. We can help you find the perfect windows for your home and provide prompt, professional service.