Types of Cracked Windows: How to Repair Them

2
min read
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May 24, 2022

Window repairs can be costly and time-consuming, but they're a necessary part of home maintenance. Knowing the different types of window cracks and how to repair them can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. In this post, we'll discuss the most common types of window cracks and how to fix them. We'll also provide tips for preventing window cracks in the first place. Let's get started!

Types of Cracked Windows

Stress Cracks

In most cases, a stress crack will begin small, usually along the window's edge. It will continue to build and spread across the glass over time, causing a bigger problem than you might have expected. Extreme temperature variations, particularly large differences between the two, are the most common source of stress cracks. For example, if it's bitterly cold outside, you'll turn up the heat inside your house to keep warm.

Stress cracks can also form as a result of more physical pressures, such as slamming a window shut. Always take care of your home's windows to avoid a self-induced stress crack that would require expensive repairs.

Pressure Cracks

A pressure crack in a window is perhaps the least common type of break. It's most frequent in double-paned or insulated glass windows. They may appear to appear out of nowhere, but they are actually created by abrupt pressure shifts induced by extreme weather. It can also happen if windows are put at an incorrect elevation level. The windows will crack as a result of the pressure exerted by these scenarios.

The shape of the break in the glass indicates that a pressure crack has developed. In most situations, the crack will follow an hourglass-shaped curve. If you have a pressure crack, you will almost certainly need to replace the entire window.

Impact Cracks

When you think about shattered windows, the first thing that springs to mind is typically an impact crack. An impact break is produced by the force of an object striking your home's window, as you would have guessed from the name. Consider the kids next door playing baseball or a bad golf swing. The unmistakable starburst pattern that spreads outwards from the place of collision usually indicates when this type of crack has developed.

If you have an impact break in one of your home's windows, be cautious when cleaning it up for your personal safety. While any shards of glass within your home should be removed, it is strongly advised that you do not attempt to remove the shattered window yourself. You may injure yourself seriously due to the nature of the crack. That is why installing a replacement window should be left to a professional.

Repairing Cracked Windows

Broken glass windows can be sealed with solvent-based adhesives like epoxy. It's a great technique to maintain the glass in good shape and avoid further damage for a long period while you wait for a replacement.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to use epoxy to repair shattered windows.

What You’ll Need:

  • Dishwashing liquid soap
  • Window cleaner
  • Cotton rags or microfiber cloth
  • Epoxy
  • Scrapper
  • Paper plate
  • Acetone

Procedures:

  1. Remove any dust, fingerprints, or oil residue, clean the glass section of the window using liquid dishwashing soap and a damp microfiber cloth. Allow for a few minutes for it to dry entirely.
  2. Combine the hardener and the resin to make a two-part epoxy mixture. On a disposable cardboard or paper plate, mix and combine the solution with a toothpick.
  3. Using a putty knife, apply the epoxy mixture to the broken glass, gently scraping to fill up the fractures. Allow at least five minutes for it to dry.
  4. Using a sharp blade or a few drops of acetone on cotton or a dry cloth, remove any excess epoxy that has protruded on the surface.
  5. Using a glass cleaner and a clean rag, polish your glass window.

Final Thoughts

Cracked windows are frequently caused by improper window cleaning. It is better to have it done by a professional window cleaner to save you the headache and possible further damage to your window.

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