How Can I Replace My Own Windows?

Remove the Glaze

• If the window has been shattered, the first step is to remove any shards of glass from the frame. If the window is still intact, then remove the glaze holding the window pane. Use a stiff putty knife to get in between the glaze and the window sill and gently wedge the glaze upward. Use a heat gun to warm the putty knife if the glaze is too hard to remove. Alternatively, there are drill attachments that grind down the putty for easy removal.

Remove the Glass

• Once the putty has been removed, the pane can be taken out. Before removing, cover both sides of the window with vinyl tape to stop the glass breaking further. Gently tap it until it comes loose of the frame. It may be necessary to break it further if it will not budge.

Treating the Wood

• Paint a layer of oil-based primer over any exposed pieces of wood around the pane. Treat exposed wood to prevent it from rotting with moisture and to stop it from drawing the oil out of the glaze, which will cause the glaze to shrink and crack. Leave the primer to dry overnight. If the window needs protecting overnight tape a plastic bag over it.

Replace the Glass

• Take the window measurements to a local glazier and order a custom-cut piece of glass. It is possible to cut glass at home with the right tools, however, it will save time to have a professional do it.

Glaze the Pane

• Roll the putty between the hands to produce long lengths of malleable putty. Apply an even layer of putty around the window frame; this will hold the window in place. Gently press the cut window pane into the space, pressing the window firmly into the putty. Add another layer of putty around the outside edge of the window to set the pane in place. To leave a smooth edge, dip the putty knife in a small amount of paint thinner and smooth it across the surface.

Patience

• The glaze could take up to several days to dry. If the window frame is wooden, use glazier points to hold the pane in place while the glaze dries. These are toothed metal clips that are pressed into the wood around the edge and removed once the glaze has fully set. Once the glaze is dry, a second application of primer can be added to keep the glaze from weathering.

Tips

• Wear thick leather gloves when working with the glass. Glazing can be purchased in an easy application tube that can provide a faster and more efficient application.