In this blog:
You can glaze a window by removing old glazing compound, securing the glass with new glazing and allowing the sealant to cure properly. Reglazing can restore some older single-pane wood windows, but most modern double- and triple-pane replacement windows cannot be reglazed and require professional repair or replacement.
- DIY glazing requires specialized tools, careful glass handling and safety precautions to avoid injury and poor sealing.
- Fog between the panes, rotting frames, recurring leaks or rising energy bills are all signs your windows may need replacement.
Thinking of picking up a DIY project? If your windows have seen better days, you might be tempted to reglaze them yourself. But how do you glaze a window? What is the glazing process?
Window glazing is more complicated than you might think, especially when you consider that many modern replacement windows cannot be reglazed at all. We’ll walk you through what glazing is and how to do it, and consider whether reglazing is a good option for your current windows.
What Is Window Glazing?
There are several different definitions for window glazing, but they’re all related. Window glazing might refer to:
- The window panes themselves.
- The sealing compound that holds the panes in the frame.
- The process of securing glass into a window frame using sealant.
If you’re reading this blog, chances are that the third definition is the one you’re seeking to learn more about.
Glazing protects windows against water and air infiltration from outside. It’s one of the primary barriers that stands between your home’s interior and the elements, and the glazing you choose can make a huge difference in your home’s overall energy efficiency. With double- or triple-glazed windows with low-E panes, your home is well protected and set up for years of lower energy bills.
Can Every Window Be Reglazed?
Not every window is suitable for reglazing, although reglazing can restore older single-pane wood windows when the frame remains in good condition. Modern double- or triple-pane windows cannot be traditionally reglazed, since they use insulated glass units.
Because glazing requires precision, specialized materials and careful handling of broken glass, many homeowners choose professional window repair or replacement for single-pane windows. Replacement may provide better long-term value, since you’ll receive an all-new product outfitted with the latest window technology.
Safety First: Know the Risks of DIY Glazing
DIY window glazing should not be attempted unless you are well-versed in home improvement. It’s a difficult and potentially hazardous job for the average DIY enthusiast, given the risk of broken glass and precision needed to apply sealant. We’d recommend leaving glazing to the professionals.
If you’re at home when work starts, keep a respirator close at hand if your window is on the older side. There may be a risk of uncovering lead paint or inhaling dust or splinters as the windows are removed. It’s always better to be overprepared with projects like this.
As a contrast, our double-pane windows are professionally constructed and shipped to your home, glazed and ready for installation. There’s less stress on your schedule and fewer safety risks in leaving the job to experts who install windows every day. More importantly, they won’t require reglazing in the first place, since double-pane windows are substantially different from single-pane windows.
How to Glaze a Window
Now that you know the risks of do-it-yourself glazing, you’re likely ready to leave that work to professionals. If you’re curious, here’s how professionals reglaze single-pane windows.
1. Using the Right Tools for the Job
Each tool used in the glazing process is specialized and not necessarily something you’ll find in the average toolkit. In addition to safety gear, pros require:
- Glazing compound
- Glazing knife
- Glazing points
- Scraper
2. Removing Old Glazing
Professionals are careful when removing the existing window frame, panes and sealant. This is the most hazardous portion of the process, since broken glass can quickly create a headache. Most pros wear cut-resistant work gloves, safety glasses and respirators for this portion of the process. They’ll place the window on a flat surface, like a worktable, for easier work.
Many windows will have take-out clips that make it simpler to remove panes. Single-pane windows with take-out clips usually require a gentle pull to release the panes.
Using a putty knife, pros scrape the old sealant from the sides of the frame. If removing the sealant leaves uneven edges, they’ll smooth the frame with sandpaper. They’ll then re-insert the unsealed glass into the frame.
3. Installing the Glass and the Glazing Compound
Once the window glass is back in the frame, pros will secure it using the new sealant. Glazing points—small pieces of metal that help hold the glass in place before the sealant dries—may also be used. They’ll play a vital role in keeping everything balanced and aligned.
Pros spread the sealant so it’s one cohesive line at the edge of the pane, allowing for no air seepage between frame and pane. Using the putty knife, they’ll smooth the sealant into the frame. They’ll then drag away any excess sealant with the putty knife.
4. Allowing the Compound to Cure
The professional will likely let you know you’ll need to let your window sit undisturbed as the glazing cures. Depending on the formula of the sealant compound, this could take anywhere from 24 hours to 7 days. Do not expose the fresh sealant to rain or cleaning materials until this curing time has passed.
For specific details on a sealant’s cure time, ask your repair technician. In addition, pay attention to the local weather. The hot, humid southern weather may affect how long it takes for the sealant compound to fully solidify. Once it’s fully cured, your window is ready to be placed back into the frame on the wall.
When Reglazing Is Enough for Older Windows
Reglazing may be the right call for older windows if:
- The glazing is cracked
- Putty is falling away
- The panes remain intact
- The frame is structurally sound
- There are no major drafts around the frame
When Window Replacement Is the Better Option
If you’re at all unsure of your ability to handle a complex DIY glazing project, it’s always best to consider window replacement. In addition, if you see any of the following issues, it’s time to give your local window replacement company a call:
- Fog between panes
- Rotting frames
- Recurring leaks
- Difficulty opening or closing windows
- Rising energy bills
Why Professional Installation Matters
Professional window installation ensures your windows are installed correctly, and much more easily and quickly than doing it yourself. With installation experts on the job, you can trust in the strength of your windows. The long-term value and peace of mind that comes from this cannot be overstated. With proper sealing, energy-efficient measures and lifetime warranties, your windows will be in good shape for the long haul. Plus, with double-pane windows, you won’t have to deal with reglazing worries again.
Ready to get started? Reach out for your free in-home estimate appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Glazing
Is window glazing the same as replacing glass?
No, window glazing is different from pane replacement. If a window pane is broken, it will require a new pane and reglazing. If your window simply needs to be resealed, you can reglaze it without necessarily needing a new pane.
How long does window glazing last?
Well-maintained, properly installed window glazing can last for decades. Even in hot, humid climates, your window glazing may last 20 or more years.
Can double-pane windows be reglazed?
No, you cannot reglaze a double-pane window. The seal between the panes is a critical part of what makes double- and triple-pane windows energy-efficient powerhouses. If that seal is broken, the insulating argon gas within escapes. You cannot recreate this seal on your own. The window will need to be replaced.