Repairing double hung window glass

I accidentally posted a message in another section of the forum pertaining to repairing cracked glass on my double pane double hung windows (I didn't see the specific section for windows). I know that they are factor sealed for insulating properties but is there a way of repairing cracked or broken glass in them? Mine are spot welded on the corners of the window. The old type you just measured the glass and re-puttied the perimeter but I don't know if you can do this on the double hung type.

Thanks

Norm Rackison

 

Dear Norm,

I assume you are talking about replacing the glass in vinyl windows?

If you have an IGU (insulated glass unit), you have to get a new IGU. Is most double hungs, they are not too hard to replace. But you need to get the EXACT size (height, width AND thickness) and order it from a glass house.

To get the old one out (and measure it), you should look to see if there is a removable stop either around the glass on the inside, or on the outside. It should be a 1/2" x 1/4" piece. The best way to get it off is to start tapping on the seam with a sharp chisel. Tap toward the center of the glass. Usually the sides come off first, then the top and bottom come of last. The IGU may be glazed on the outside with 2 faced tape or silicone. A bent pizza cutter or bent linoleum knife may work to cut the tape (or silicone) around the glass.

Sometimes the double hung sash will need to be unscrewed on the corners to get the glass out. this is usually the case if the glass has a black marine glazing boot around it. If this is the case, you will be able to see the edge of the black rubber boot around the glass. Simply find the screws that hold the sash together, remove them, and using a block of wood, tap the sash apart.

If these instructions don't help you because you don't have a vinyl window, please clarify what sort of windows you have, and maybe someone else can help you.