French doors are gorgeous, but broken glass can pose a safety hazard. In addition, it can allow heated and cooled air to escape your home and increase your energy costs.
It is not necessary to replace the whole door if just one pane is broken. It's possible to repair a french door window pane with a few basic tools and elbow grease.
Repairing a Broken or Cracked Glass Pane
Glass can be cracked by the impact of a pebble by your lawnmowers, a drink that is placed too hard on a glass-topped table or a vase that was crushed by an curious cat. Super glue like Loctite Glass Glue and Gorilla Glue, can be used to fill in small cracks. This will make the crack less obvious. If the crack is more than a quarter of an inch wide but if you notice that your double-pane windows are losing their seal and are in need of replacement, it's time to replace the glass.
If you're looking to repair the damaged glass by yourself, first take out any paint seams around the edges of the frame and trim the frame using a utility knife and then remove the molding with a putty blade. If you have nails that are holding the molding in place you can use a brad nailer remove them.
Once you've removed the molding, lay the cardboard sheets on the work surface to protect the remainder of the door. Remove any broken glass remaining from the frame. Tape the crack on both ends with masking or packing tape. This will prevent the crack from spreading as you repair it.
Before you apply the epoxy to the broken glass, clean it thoroughly. This gets rid of any dirt or debris and aids in bonding the repair adhesive more efficiently to the glass. Let the epoxy dry for a couple of hours after applying it. You may have to apply several coats of epoxy if the crack is very deep or has been shattered into pieces.
The two-part epoxy is fast drying so it's essential to prepare your workspace prior to you begin applying the adhesive. You'll require a container to mix the hardener and resin and an object to stir the adhesive.
You can attempt some basic window replacements for your French doors, however it's best to consult an expert if you're comfortable with DIY or when your windows are more complicated. A Glazier or window replacement business can help you choose a secure, attractive and safe glass pane for your french door window replacement doors and then install it quickly.
Cutting a New Piece of Glass
French windows are extremely popular with home and business owners who want to add a touch of class to their building. These windows can be opened completely to let the inside of a structure to be seen from the outside. They also provide a view without being blocked by walls or other structures. These windows are not ideal for rooms with children due to the way they open. However they're perfect for general areas where a chic accent is required.
If you are able to do a little DIY work, replacing window panes is a straightforward task. Before you begin cutting the glass, it's crucial to make sure that the size is right. This involves taking the measurements of the broken glass and making sure that you have enough glass to replacement before you start 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 to wear safety gloves and glasses for protection during the procedure. Once the old glass has been removed, you'll have to create a clean work surface which could include a large table with a flat top or a piece of wood. The surface should be cushioned with cardboard or five or four sheets of newspaper to prevent scratches. Then, you'll need an excellent cutter (preferably not too new however, not too dull also) and some machine oil for the cutter.
The best method of cutting a piece of glass is with a diamond-tipped cutter. This tool scores instead of cuts the glass and allows you to snap it along a straight path. 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'll need to make an outline of the curve first. You can use cardboard or a plastic sheet to trace the outline of the curve onto the glass. You can then break pliers and gently remove small sections of the curve until you get an even, smooth curve.
Installing the Glass Pane
French windows let more light to enter your home, and also provide an amazing view of the outdoors. They are energy-efficient and help prevent drafts. However, the price could be costly. It is also difficult to find replacement glass for french doors to replace sliding patio doors window panes. It is a good thing that you can replace a damaged glass pane without the need to purchase the door. This will save you money, time and frustration.
The first step to replace the french door glass replacement window pane is to remove the frame around the glass that has been damaged from the door frame. This will allow you to observe the gap and decide how much glass you will need. Once you have removed the trim, you can begin cutting the new piece of glass to fit. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any sharp edges.
Measure the height and the width of the gap to ensure that you have the exact measurement for the glass you are planning to purchase. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurements, and cut a piece of safety glass to the same size. Safety glass is more dense than regular annealed and won't shatter as easily. It also resists UV and reduces the glare. This makes it a perfect choice for french door glass replacement doors.
Test-fit the new glass pane in the frame before installing it. Fill any gaps with caulk or wood putty. You may have to sand the area where the new glass pane meets the frame to smooth it out.
You can buy replacement glass at glass shops or hardware stores. Install the new glass, then reinstall the trim around the door frame. Sand or paint it if needed.
It is essential to replace your French windows with care and according to 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 review the company's background before hiring them.
Refinishing the Frame
When replacing a french door's window pane, you may choose to replace the entire frame. This can enhance the appearance of the window and also save you money on repairs. You can also opt for an energy-efficient or aesthetic type of glass for your french doors.
Before you begin, wash the frame thoroughly. This will get rid of any dirt or grease that might have accumulated on the surface. This makes it easier to paint and keep the paint from leaking through to the new glass.
It is also recommended to take the time to smooth the surface of the wood before painting. This will make the finish smoother and ensure that the paint adheres well to the wood. Wood filler can be used after sanding to fill in any holes or gaps before painting. You can also apply an oil-based primer that is of high-quality to help the paint adhere to the surface.
To protect yourself from glass shards that are sharp it is recommended to wear gloves and safety goggles prior to working on a damaged or broken window pane. After you've done this, you can begin removing the trim that was previously attached to the window frame. If you are using a utility knife it is necessary to cut the seams of paint along the frame and at the joints of the trim. After the trim is removed, you will be able to determine if the window pane was installed correctly and if any adjustments are required to be made.
Install the glazing points inside the frame after the new pane has been put in. The next step is to apply caulk on the frame's edges to seal it and make sure that the new glass does not leak. Once the caulk has dried it is time to replace the stops and nail the brad nails back in the frame.
Many homeowners can repair a French door pane on their own. If, however, you're not a skilled DIYer or have a limited knowledge of home improvement, it might be better to leave the job to experts. Brennan Enterprises can help you transform your home. Contact us today to learn more. We will help you choose the perfect windows for your home, and offer quick, high-quality service.