DIY Guide on Repairing Small Cracks in Window Glass
Windows are the most important structural part of a house as they not only serve functional purposes like allowing natural light inside and keeping the temperature regulated, but they also add to the aesthetics of your home. It annoys every homeowner when the window glass cracks, ruining the home decor.
It can happen due to many factors, but fear not; this blog has your back to solve this issue. You do not need professional help to repair small cracks in window glass; you can fix the windows yourself with the right information. This blog is a DIY guide for fixing your windows by following simple steps. So, let’s revamp the windows and get the same polished look back. However, for more complex issues or larger damages, consider seeking professional assistance, especially for tasks like Broken Window Glass Repair, to ensure the structural integrity and safety of your windows.
Materials You Will Need to Repair Small Cracks in Window Glass
- Glass cleaner
- Microfiber cloth
- Nail polish or acetone
- Epoxy resin repair kit
- Razor blade
- Sandpaper
- Safety gloves
- Safety goggles
6 Steps on Repairing Small Cracks in Window Glass
Follow these steps to fix your window. However, you should keep in mind that the steps mentioned below work only for the small cracks. If the damage is deeper, you may not fix it yourself.
- Clean the Window
The first step is to clean the cracked area on your window to fix it effectively. So, pick a microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner to clean the window. Ensure the window is completely free of dirt and debris, which will help you fix it easily. If there is still any residual dirt around the crack, you can use a nail polish remover or acetone to remove it. Before you move on to the next step, dry the area completely.
- Check the Crack
When the window is clean and clear, you will get a clear picture of the damage. Now, it is time to assess the crack in your window and fix it accordingly. Carefully examine the size of the crack. Also consider the depth as well. It is suitable for DIY repair if the crack is smaller than an inch and does not affect the entire glass thickness. However, for larger or deeper cracks, you may need to consult a professional for expert assistance or consider replacing the window, as this method may fail on deeper cracks.
- Stabilise the Crack
Stabilizing the crack as soon as possible; otherwise, it may expand through the window and result in greater damage. Clear nail polish can stabilize the crack and prevent it from spreading further.
Apply nail polish over the crack to cover it entirely. When the cracks are smaller, it is hard to apply a solution over them evenly. So, in that case, you may use a toothpick or a fine brush to even out the material and wait for some time so that it dries.
- Fill the Crack
Once you have stabilized the crack, it should look better. However, if it is still visible, it calls for filling. You can fill the crack, improve its appearance, and strengthen the repair. If the crack is small, nail polish will do the job of an effective filler. You must apply a thin layer over the crack to fill the entire space. Do not worry if you have applied some extra nail polish that is giving a bad appearance, as you can easily clear it with a clean cloth before it starts to dry.
Another way to fill the crack is by using epoxy resin. You can find epoxy resin repair kits specifically designed for glass repair. This method provides a more durable solution. Pick a paper plate to prepare your epoxy mixture in a room with good ventilation. Follow the provided instructions available on the product to make the mixture with proper concentrations. It takes at least 20 seconds to mix the epoxy. You can do it using a toothpick. Once combined, the mixture solidifies quickly, so use it right away. If applied excessively, remove the extra resin with the help of a razor blade.
- Sand and Polish
This step is important to make your window look the same as before. So, once the filler is dried, use sandpaper to make the repaired area smooth. You should continue doing it until the repaired area is smooth. Be careful while sanding as you may scratch the surrounding glass, impacting its appearance. Once it is done, remove the sand with a clean cloth.
- Give Final Touch
With these steps, your window will be repaired. However, your job does not end here. To make your window look as good as new, you should inspect the area carefully to ensure that the repaired area is smooth and blending seamlessly. If it is clear, spray your window with a glass cleaner and rub it with a clean rag for a final polished look.
Important Safety Precautions
Safety should be your priority. Keep these precautions in consideration while repairing your window.
- Wear safety gloves and goggles while preparing the solutions. They will protect your hands and eyes when you deal with glass particles and chemicals.
- Make the solutions in a well-ventilated area so that you don’t inhale fumes from nail polish or epoxy resin.
- If you use razor blades to remove excessive solution, handle them carefully to avoid injuries.
Conclusion
Small cracks can ruin the look of your windows and make them look old and unpleasant, which ruins the overall look of your home’s structure. Nevertheless, with the information provided in this blog, you can repair the small cracks in window glass yourself. Just follow these steps and be careful while handling the solution. As a result, you can have your windows back to their original look.