Repair a Broken Window | |
The shattering window glass sounds worse than it is because replacing a broken window pane is a relatively inexpensive and easy repair. If the pane is in a removable sash or storm window you can take it to a repair service or hardware store or do it yourself. However, if the broken glass is in a permanent window it becomes more costly to have a handyman make a house call for such a small job. It'll cost $50 for the repair, compared with the $15 in materials you'll need to do it. The materials include up to 6 square feet of glass, glazier points and glazing putty. You'll need a screwdriver and pliers to remove the broken glass and old putty and a putty knife to smooth the new glazing putty. (Be careful and wear work gloves and eye protection.) Shape the glazing putty into a long thin rope by rolling it in your hands. Put the glass into the sash, install the glazier points and work the putty around the perimeter. The putty acts like a gasket holding the glass in the sash frame. Smooth the putty with the edge of the putty knife. Tip: For an extra smooth finish, dip the blade of the putty knife into mineral spirits before you begin. |