How to Glaze Windows

You can easily glaze single pane windows with the help of some basic tools, materials, and safety gear. Typically, windows are glazed or reinforced with additional layers of glass or plastic panes for a number of reasons; these include enhancing home security, conserving energy, and energy-related cost through improved insulation, opting for a long-lasting window solution, etc. Given below is a step-by-step guide to glazing windows.

Step 1 – Remove the Old Glass Pane and Putty

Start by taping an old newspaper on either side of the windowpane. This ensures that the glass will not shatter when you break the window. Use a hammer to break the pane, and then pull out the glass slowly. Once removed, use a putty knife to loosen the putty; if the putty doesn’t come off easily, use a blow torch to melt it off. Then, remove the existing metal fasteners from the frame. If the fasteners are in good condition, you can reuse them.

Step 2 – Treat the Wood

Work on the window frame with sandpaper and smooth the wood. Follow this with a coat of oil-based primer to treat and seal the bare wood; the primer coat prevents oil absorption by the wood during the glazing process. Oil absorption compromises the structural integrity of the unit. It can cause cracks to appear within 2 years of glazing. Once the primer is applied, allow it to dry. This approximately takes 24 hours. Check the label for the exact drying time.

Step 3 – Work the Putty

When the primer dries out, work on the putty. Knead and shape the putty using your hands. Once the putty dough is soft enough, stretch it along the inside edge of the pane and firm it into place, first with your fingers and then with a putty knife. Once you run the putty all around, fit, and seal the new pane in between.

Step 4 – Add Glazing Points

Next, place a glazier point in the middle of the pane. Use a putty knife to force some pressure onto the point so that it is held firmly in place. Add glazing points on the top and bottom centers of the pane. Repeat this procedure on the other side of the pane.

Step 5 – Apply the Glazing

You can now apply a glazing bread. First, roll the glazing compound around in your hands, and then apply the glazing bead around the glass inset. Apply some pressure to ensure the glazing is firmly in place. Make sure the glass pane is secure.

Step 6 – Trim and Dry

Add the finishing touches by trimming excess putty from the edges of the pane. Use a putty knife to squeeze and trim the putty. Once done, allow the glazing to dry out completely. This usually takes up to ten days. Once it is dry, prime, and paint as the last finishing touch.