French Door Window Pane Replacement
French doors are beautiful, but broken glasses can pose a security risk. In addition, it can let cool and heated air to escape from your home and increase your energy bills.
There is no need to replace the whole door if a pane is broken. With just a few tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can fix damaged windows on french doors.
How to fix a broken or Cracked Pane of Glass
A pebble from the lawnmower that flies through your window, a drink set too hard on the glass-topped coffee table, or a beloved vase that is tipped over by a curious cat are all things that could crack glass. If the crack is small, a super glue like Loctite Glass Glue or Gorilla Glue can help fill it in and make the break less obvious. If the crack is larger than an inch, or your double-paned windows have lost their seals, it's best to replace the glass.
If you'd like to repair the glass yourself, remove the seams of paint from the frame's edges, and then trim using a utility knife. Then, remove the molding with the putty tool. If there are nails anchoring the molding then make use of a brad nailer to take them out.
After taking the molding off, place cardboard sheets on the work surface to shield the remainder of the door. Remove any broken glass that remains from the frame. Then, apply tape to the crack on both sides with masking or packing tape. This will keep the crack from spreading as you attempt to repair it.
Before applying the epoxy to the cracked glass, clean it thoroughly. This gets rid of any dirt or debris and helps the repair adhesive bond more effectively to the glass. Let the epoxy dry for a few hours after applying it. It is possible to apply several coats of epoxy if the crack is very deep or has broken into pieces.
Two-part epoxy dries quickly and you'll need to prepare your workspace and ready prior to applying the adhesive. You'll need a container in order to mix the hardener and resin and an instrument to stir the adhesive.
replace french door to complete basic french door window pane replacement on your own, however if you aren't comfortable working on DIY projects or have complicated windows, it's better to call in a professional. A Glazier or window replacement business can assist you in choosing a secure, attractive and safe glass pane for your French doors and then install it quickly.
How to Cut a New Glass Piece
French windows are popular with business and home owners who want to add a touch of elegance to their buildings. They can be opened completely to let the inside of a building to be seen from the outside. They also give a view without being blocked by walls or structures. These windows aren't ideal for children's rooms because of how they open. However, they are perfect in general areas where a chic accent is needed.
If you have the ability to do a bit of DIY work replacing a window is an easy task. The most important aspect of the job is to make sure the glass is the right size before you cut it. It is important to take measurements of the broken glass and ensure that you have enough glass to replace it prior to cutting. Once you have the right size glass, you can begin the process of taking the old piece off and installing the new one.
It is recommended that you wear protective gloves and glasses for protection during this process. Once the glass is gone then you need to make a clean surface for working on, such as an extensive table or flat section of plywood. The surface should be padded with cardboard or five or four sheets of newspaper to avoid scratches. The next step is to get a good cutter (preferably not too brand new however, not too dull either) and some machine oil for the cutter.
A diamond-tipped glass cutter is the ideal tool to cut a piece of tempered glass. This tool marks the glass rather than slices through it, allowing you to snap the piece in straight lines. If you're using tempered glass it is necessary to score it twice before you snap the piece.
If you are working with a curved piece of glass, you will have to design an outline of the curve before. You can use cardboard or a plastic sheet to trace the outline of the curve on the glass. Then you can break pliers with care to take small pieces of the curved section until you have a straight and even curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows let more light to enter your home, and also provide stunning views of the outside. They are energy efficient and stop drafts from entering your home. The cost can be quite high. It is also difficult to locate replacement glass for French window panes. Fortunately, you can replace a broken glass pane without needing to purchase a new door. This will save you time, money and frustration.
To replace a French window, you must remove the trim from the door frame. This will allow you to see the gap and determine how much glass you will need. Once you've removed the trim, you can begin cutting a new piece of glass to fit. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from sharp edges.
Take measurements of the height and width of the gap to ensure you have the exact measurement for the glass you want to use. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurements and cut a piece of safety glass to that size. Safety glass is more durable and won't break as easily as regular annealed glass. It is also UV-resistant and reduces the glare. This makes it a great choice for French doors.
When you are prepared to install the new glass pane, place it into the frame and then test it to ensure it is properly fitted. If there are any gaps you can fill them with caulk or wood putty. It is possible to sand the region where the new glass pane meets the frame to smooth it out.
You can purchase replacement glass at the hardware store or in a glass shops. Once you have the new pane, you can re-install the trim on the door frame and sand or paint the frame if needed.
It is crucial to replace your French windows carefully and in accordance with local building codes. Consider hiring a handyman or glazier if aren't comfortable doing the job yourself. Make sure you prepare ahead, request multiple quotes and look over the company's background before hiring them.
Refinishing the Frame
When replacing a french door window pane, you may choose to replace the entire frame. This can improve the appearance of the window and save you money in repairs. You can also opt for an energy-efficient or aesthetically pleasing style of glass for your french doors.
If you plan to restore the frame, be sure you clean it thoroughly prior to beginning. This will remove any dirt or grease that has built up on the surface. This will make it easier to paint and keep the paint from leaking through to the new glass.
It is also recommended to make sure to sand the wood's surface before painting. This will smooth the finish and ensure that the paint adheres well to the wood. After sanding, make use of wood filler to fill any gaps or holes in the frame prior to painting. Additionally, you can use an oil-based primer of high-quality to aid the paint to stick to the surface.
To shield yourself from sharp glass shards, you should put on safety glasses and gloves prior to working on a damaged or broken window pane. After you've done that 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 you have removed the trim, you can verify that the window panes were installed correctly and make any necessary adjustments.
Install the glazing points inside the frame once the new pane is installed. Then, you'll need to apply caulk around the edges of the frame to seal it, and make sure that the new glass doesn't leak. When the caulk is dry then you can put in your stops and re-nail the brad nails.
Many homeowners can repair the French door pane on their own. If you're not a DIYer or have little experience in home improvement then it is recommended to leave this job to the professionals. Contact Brennan Enterprises today to learn more about how we can assist you in making changes to your home. We will help you choose the ideal windows for your home, and offer prompt, professional service.