How to Install New Glass in an Aluminum Window Frame

Putting new glass in an aluminum window frame can seem like a tricky job, but in fact it’s quite straightforward. As you’re working with glass you need to take precautions. Do everything sensibly, follow the instructions and there will be no problem.

Step 1 - Removing the Frame

Before you can put in new glass you need to remove the aluminum window frame from the window. This is a simple procedure. You’ll need to determine where it’s held in place and loosen the screws one at a time until you can lift out the frame with the old glass still in it.

Step 2 - Removing the Glass

Lay the aluminum window frame on a table. Make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses as you’ll be handling glass. You’ll see that there are screws on each corner of the aluminum window frame. Loosen the screws on both sides of one corner and then on the corner diagonally opposite it.

Hold the window so one of these corners extends over the side of the table. Use a rubber mallet to tap the frame lightly and move it away from the glass. Turn the window to the opposite corner and repeat the action. Once the frame has been loosened from the glass pull it away.

Step 3 - New Glass

Measure the old glass in both directions. You also need to pay attention to the thickness of the glass so it will fit properly into the frames. Once you have all the dimensions go and purchase a new piece of glass and have it cut to size.

Step 4 - Rubber

You’ll find that there is a rim of rubber around the old glass where it fits into the aluminum window frame. This needs to be eased off the old glass and fitted on the new glass. Take the time to clean out the rubber first in order to remove any small pieces of glass that might have become lodged in the rubber.

Step 5 - Fitting the Frame

Slide the glass so that half of it overhangs the edge of the table. You should have one corner of the glass showing, so that there’s a triangle of glass extending from the table. The aluminum window frame will be in two “V” shapes. Slide one of these over the glass extending from the table. Use the rubber mallet to tape the metal frame tightly in place over the rubber.

Turn the glass over and repeat the procedure, making sure that the two pieces of the frame are snug on the glass and butting up against each other. Put the clips in position and screw into place on one corner. Do the same in the opposite corner. After this the only thing left to do is to replace the aluminum window frame back in the window. Put it in position very carefully and hold it firmly while you screw it back in place.