A cracked or broken glass window is not only unappealing, but it can significantly reduce the energy efficiency in your home. If your windows do not consist of strengthened glass, a stray ball or extreme weather can easily lead to a broken window.
In addition, cracked windows are hazardous, and you should fix them before they shatter and hurt someone.
Reasons for cracked windows
It is essential to know what causes cracks in the window to enable you to avoid them.
- Cracks caused by hard impacts
Hard impacts are the most common cause of cracked and broken windows. A stray ball or rock or debris from a storm can cause hard impact cracks. A crack due to impact has a center of impact, and small cracks spread to look like a starburst.
- Extreme temperature changes
Extreme temperature differences between the inside and outside of your home can result in stress cracks. The fluctuations in temperature cause small, almost unnoticeable cracks at the edge of your window. If you do not repair your window, the cracks can spread and cause the window to break.
- Extreme pressure changes
Changes in pressure due to the weather cause pressure cracks. Cracks caused by extreme pressure changes are uncommon and often appear suddenly. If you notice sudden cracks that appear as curves and spread throughout the glass, you could be dealing with pressure cracks.
Can I repair cracked glass?
A cracked glass window is unsightly, and you might want to repair it as soon as possible. One of the most common questions is whether you can repair a window without professional help. The answer is yes. However, you should be careful not to cut yourself or make the crack bigger and break the glass.
You can easily repair small cracks in your window without replacing the window. However, there are certain conditions you should adhere to. You can use glass adhesive and epoxy to repair a clean crack or a chip in the corner of the glass.
If the damage to your glass window is bigger than a crack, consult a professional. Most impact cracks or extensive chips are best dealt with professionally because it is dangerous and you can get serious cuts.
- Temporary fixes for cracked glass
You can find a temporary fix for your broken glass to prevent further damage. The most common temporary fixes include;
Masking tape – you can apply masking tape to both sides of the glass to keep the glass in place. However, the masking tape holds the crack for a short time. You need to apply the masking tape over the crack and extend it to prevent further damage.
Glass adhesives – if you want to stop a crack from spreading, you can use glass adhesive. Although you use it to fix windshields and vehicle glass, you can temporarily fix your window. Put it on the crack and leave it to dry.
Plastic cover – you can use a thick piece of plastic cover to cover an extensive crack. Use duct tape to fix the plastic over the crack.
- Permanent fix for glass window cracks
If you want a permanent fix for cracks on your window, you will need the following items.
- Glass cleaner
- Clean microfiber cloth
- Dishwashing soap
- Acetone
- Epoxy
- Resin
- Putty knife
Procedure:
- Use the liquid dishwashing soap and water to clean debris and dirt from the crack. Use a clean cotton rag and leave it to dry.
- Thoroughly mix two parts of epoxy with hardener and resin on a piece of paper or cardboard.
- Using the putty knife, carefully apply the mixture to the cracks. Ensure that you do not use too much force to avoid further damage to the glass. Leave the mixture to dry.
- Use acetone and a sharp knife to scrape off the excess mixture.
- Clean your glass with window cleaner and microfiber cloth. Your window is good as new.
Cracked glass is a common problem in our households, and it is sometimes unavoidable. You can prevent further damage to the glass but ensure to be careful. If the crack is extensive or there are loose shards of glass, it would be best to get professional help or replace the glass.
If you want to avoid cracked and broken windows that you should regularly replace, buy the highest quality insulated glass from Glassupply.com. Insulated glass is strong and durable, and reinforced by using tempered glass panes. In addition, insulated glass is also more energy-efficient, making it eco-friendly and excellent in today’s contemporary world.
Insulated glass is strong, resilient, and durable enough to withstand natural forces. You can use insulated glass to design outdoor elements because it is difficult to break and maintains an excellent aesthetic.
If you are looking for high-quality insulated glass for home, commercial or industrial use, contact us at Glassupply.com. We will supply you with the highest quality insulated glass that comes with one year warranty on manufacturing defects. You can make a custom order, and we will deliver it to your door.
