How to Replace Broken Slider Window Glass

a gloved hand next to a window
  • 2-3 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 50-200
What You'll Need
Rubber mallet
Vacuum
Broom
Dustpan
Screwdriver
Screws
Level
Utility knife
Glass (optional)
Tape measure
Plastic gasket
Hammer
What You'll Need
Rubber mallet
Vacuum
Broom
Dustpan
Screwdriver
Screws
Level
Utility knife
Glass (optional)
Tape measure
Plastic gasket
Hammer

If your slider window is broken, you will have to replace it as soon as possible to avoid any accidents. Most glass windows use aluminum casements. These casements are secured at the joints using plastic inserts. The first thing you need to do is to identify the parts of the window. Learning and removing the parts of a window is not a difficult task. If the glass of your window is broken, you will need to remove the shards and have it replaced with a new glass. If the frame is broken, you will have to reconnect the joints. It is not difficult to replace broken windows if you are familiar with the parts of the window.

Step 1 - Clean the Broken Areas

Use a broom and dustpan to collect the bigger bits of glass. Be careful not to get cut, or you can use a piece of rag to cover your hands when picking up the broken glass. Use a vacuum cleaner to get the smaller and hard-to-reach shards of glass. After cleaning the area, check the frame to see if there are any missing parts or if the frame is bent. Before you work on this, make sure you have the replacement parts available. Use a tape measure to get the dimensions of the glass and the frame. Bring the information to your local glass cutter.

Step 2 - Check for Damage

Check the whole casement to look for any damage. Remove the broken glass frame. Check the slider if there are any damages. If the slider is bent, get your screwdriver to unscrew the casement. Use your hammer to straighten the slider. Do not apply too much force on the slider; instead of hammering it down, tap the slider until it straightens. Too much force could result in dents.

Step 3 - Remove Glass

You will also need to replace the broken glass. You can take out the whole glass by removing the screws located at the top or the bottom of the frame. Just remove one screw and slowly pull the frame apart. Make sure you do this on a table so the glass will not fall to the ground. Check the gasket for any signs of damage.

Step 4 - Replace

Use a screwdriver to remove the window sash of the frame. Carefully slide the glass and secure it back again with the screws. Take note, some windows will require you to use caulk to completely seal the frame. Use your utility knife to remove the existing caulk. Before removing the glass, make sure there is no more caulk around the edges, for it may crack just in case you tug it off from the frame. Once you are done with the frame, place this on the slider. Check if the panels slide correctly.