An errant baseball, bad weather or just plain old wear and tear can break a window pane in a garage door. When this happens, it’s important to fix it right away. In addition to being an eyesore, broken or cracked garage door windows can also reduce your garage’s energy efficiency and security. When fixing a garage door window, experts follow a strict protocol to restore the door’s functionality and beauty.
Assessing the Damage
To fix a garage door window, you must first determine how bad the damage is. This is why experts check each pane of glass for chips, cracks or whole breaks. They also look for signs of rot, wear or other deterioration on the surrounding frame that might have caused the glass to break. The results of this evaluation will tell you if you need to replace the whole window or if a repair will do the trick. In situations where the damage extends beyond the window, repairing the garage door structure may be necessary.
Safety Precautions Before Starting
For safety reasons, experts always leave the garage door fully open and fastened before beginning repairs. To prevent any unanticipated movement, they deactivate the garage door opener. Having the right personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses to shield eyes from flying glass, thick gloves to deftly manipulate sharp objects and a face mask to prevent breathing in dust and other particles, is crucial. To further reduce the likelihood of accidents, they remove any potential hazards from the work area and make sure there is enough illumination.
Tools and Materials Used
For a smooth repair, experts gather all the required tools and materials prior to beginning the repair process. Putty knives, screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, measuring tapes and glass cutters are among the most common instruments used. Other parts needed for a window replacement project usually include new glass, glazing points, silicone sealant, glazing putty and paint or finish that complements the door’s current design. When fixing broken glass, experts also have a vacuum cleaner on hand to pick up any debris. By getting everything ready ahead of time, the repair will take less time.
Removing the Old Window Pane
Experts normally start the repair process by using a putty knife or scraper to remove the old glazing putty or rubber gaskets that were around the window. After that, they take great care to remove the glass from any glazing points or clips. Carefully removing the glass from the window, piece by piece, while making sure to contain and dispose of any fragments, may be necessary if the window is significantly broken or shattered. If the glass is mostly undamaged, they may use a glass cutter to score it.
Cleaning the Window Frame
Having a clean frame makes it easier to apply the new glazing putty or sealer and prepares the surface for the replacement glass. If there is any leftover old putty, paint or dirt on the frame, the professionals will use sandpaper or a wire brush to remove it. The areas around edges and corners, where dirt and debris collect, get their undivided attention. Experts also take care of any corrosion on metal frames and any rot on wooden frames, so that they don’t become problems later on.
Measuring for a New Window Pane
Making sure the new window pane fits properly requires taking precise measurements. For each frame, experts take many measurements of the opening’s width and length to compensate for any imperfections. To accommodate the frame material’s expansion and contraction, they deduct a tiny amount (often around 1/8 inch) from each dimension. This ensures that the new glass will fit securely without being too tight, preventing it from shattering under pressure.
Selecting the Right Replacement Glass
Safety regulations and the door’s initial blueprint dictate the best replacement glass type to use. Options include tempered, laminated and insulated glass. For further safety and energy savings, experts take the window’s placement and exposure to weather elements into account when choosing between glass types. They’ll also take into account how well the glass type complements the garage’s door design.
Installing the New Window Pane
After meticulously cutting the new glass to size, experts carefully insert it into the freshly cleaned frame. They check that the glass is flat and centered within the aperture. Then, they take great care while positioning the rubber gasket system around the edges of the glass to ensure a tight fit.
Securing the Window with Glazing Points
Experts utilize glazing points to fasten the new piece of glass to the window frame. They do this by placing little metal clips or triangles around the edge of the glass at regular intervals, usually every eight to 12 inches. Carefully pressing the points into the frame, they make sure they are flush and don’t protrude by using a putty knife or specialized glazing tool.
Applying Glazing Putty or Sealant
Next, experts will use glazing putty or silicone sealant to make sure the window is waterproof. They use a putty knife to meticulously smooth the putty or sealer into the space between the glass and the frame, ensuring a clean, consistent look. Not only does this seal prevent air and water leaks, but it also gives the glass extra support to keep it in place.
Painting or Finishing the Window Frame
Following the drying period of the glazing putty, experts will paint or finish the window frame so it blends in with the garage door. In addition to enhancing the repair’s aesthetic value, this step shields the putty and frame from the elements. Then, they evenly apply the finish, being sure to cover and protect any exposed glazing putty, followed by carefully masking off the glass to prevent paint from getting on it.
Testing the Garage Door Operation
Once the paint dries and after re-engaging the garage door opener, experts carefully test the operation of the door by opening and closing it multiple times. This check makes sure the door can still travel freely after the repair and that the window won’t get in the way. They’ll also keep an ear out for strange sounds and watch the door to make sure it’s moving smoothly.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
As a last step in fixing windows, experts will often provide homeowners with advice on how to keep their windows in good repair. Some of these tasks may involve cleaning and inspecting the windows on a regular basis, looking for indications of wear and loose hardware and fixing small problems as soon as they become major problems. To further safeguard the windows against flying objects or unintentional collisions, they may advise the installation of protective grilles or impact-resistant film. Ask us about our garage door maintenance today! It is always best to consult an expert on broken or damaged garage door windows!
Lewis Door Service specializes in repairing broken garage door windows in Louisville, KY. We also offer other types of garage door repairs, including full door replacements. Give us a call today to schedule garage door window repair or replacement services for your home.
