How to Replace an Octagon Window

If you have an octagon window in your home, then you may still be reeling after discovering the cost of replacing the glass in the window. For such a tiny pane, a replacement window glass will cost you nearly $200 for double glazing, and while you may be tempted just to cover over the entire thing and be done with it, there are other things that you can do to cut the cost of replacing an octagonal window with glass.

Replacing the window itself can be more time consuming, but rather than leave it to an experienced handyman or glazier, you should at least attempt to do this job yourself, and save some money while doing it. Follow a few simple rules to replacing the glass in your octagon window, and you can get the job done quickly and easily.

Step 1 - Getting the Glass

What you decide to fill in your octagon window with depends upon its current state, If you are finding that the glass is simply unable to bear cold conditions, for example it becomes frosted in winter and collects condensation on the inside, even after you have caulked the frame, then you should consider a double-pane of Plexiglas. This is cheaper than ordinary glass, and will prevent air from touching the cold pane, saving you money on your heating.

Step 2 - Removing the Old Glass

Once you have chosen your preferred glass materials, the task now is to remove the old glass from your window. Most octagonal window panes have a metal surround which is nailed to the outside of the wooden frame. Take some pliers, and carefully remove any nails which are holding the window in place. You may need to use a step ladder if the octagon window is high, but take care to ensure that the ladder is on level ground, and that you have someone there to assist you in case of accident. Remove the nails, and then pull the frame away from the window. There may be some resistance if the installer used caulk, so be prepared to prise if off with the tip of a screwdriver.

Step 3 - Install the New Glass

If you have decided to double glaze your window, then you should have your piece of Plexiglas already cut to size. Push this through the opening which you have just made in your window frame, and then seal the side facing you with a bit of caulk. Take the new glass, and insert it into the metal octagon window frame (you may need to remove the old glass with a hammer first), and caulk this into place.

Step 4 - Finishing

The metal frame will have to be screwed or nailed back in to place, so make sure that you have enough nails to cover the area. Once the frame is securely in place, caulk around the edge of the glass, and where the frame touches the edge of the wall. Ensure that there are no leaks, and then leave to dry.