Do-it-yourself replacement of double-glazed glass in a plastic window

It may seem difficult to replace the double-glazed glass in a plastic window, but you can easily accomplish it on your own if you have the necessary equipment and know-how. Taking on this project can help you save time and money, whether you’re replacing old, inefficient glass or dealing with a broken pane.

You must first gather the required supplies and equipment. This comes with a tape measure, a utility knife, a putty knife, a new double-glazed unit, and safety gloves. To guarantee that you receive the correct size replacement unit, take precise measurements of your window.

After you have everything you need, the old glass unit needs to be removed. Since you will be using the glazing beads again, pry them off with caution so as not to break them. It should be easy to remove the old glass after the beads have been removed.

The next step is to install the new glass unit. Make sure the new unit sits properly and level as you place it within the frame. After that, replace the glazing beads to firmly anchor the glass. Lastly, make sure the window opens and closes smoothly.

A simple do-it-yourself project can be completed by replacing the double-glazed glass in a plastic window with a little perseverance and attention to detail. You will not only be able to use your window again, but you will also feel good about fixing it yourself.

Reasons for replacing double glazing

A double-glazed window is an intricate hermetic construction made up of multiple glass sheets that are spaced apart by an aluminum frame. Underneath the glass sheets is a bead of silica gel, which is used to absorb moisture from the package’s chamber. Between the glasses, a double seal is affixed using thiokol, a unique mastic that unites the entire structure, and butyl tape, which is situated beneath the spacer frame.

For reference, the article "How to choose plastic windows" has more information about the design of double-glazed windows.

Glass represents one of this system’s major weak points. Because of its extreme fragility, the material can break or crack at any time. If this occurs, the double-glazed window’s glass must be replaced right away because the depressurization of one chamber causes the window to rapidly lose its consumer qualities in both the package and the window itself:

• moisture appears on the glass, and the desiccant flows down in the form of yellow resin;
• street sounds are clearly audible;
• drafts appear;
• does not retain heat well.

Replacement of the glass unit is also necessary in the following situations:

• the bag"s chamber has lost its seal (there may be different reasons), which is why the glass sweats in the summer and becomes covered with frost in the winter;
• it is necessary to insulate the room, as a result, the usual flood glass is changed to i-glass or a single-chamber package to a double-chamber one;
• the sounds of a noisy street began to penetrate into the room — noise-protective double-glazed windows are installed.

Note: The article "How to choose plastic windows" also explains what flood and i-glass are, as well as the different kinds of noise-protective packaging.

Is it possible to replace glass in a double-glazed window

When contacting a company for double-glazed window installation or repair, the most common question is, "Is it possible to replace broken glass in a double-glazed window without changing the latter?" There could be a few different responses, depending on the company’s level: "No," "Yes," or "Yes, and with a visit to the customer."

Let’s examine each response in more detail.

In a respectable business, they will respond, "No." Here, they take pride in their reputation and will present the customer with the best option, which is to remove the damaged package and replace it.

People who are attempting to make as much money as they can say "yes." They will arrive, take out the window, and transport it to the workshop where the broken glass will be replaced. They will then deliver and install the double-glazed window that has been repaired. The quality of these repairs is unquestionable because everything was completed in compliance with technical guidelines.

Concerns are raised regarding the cost of repairs, which amount to between 100 and 200 rubles and only involve replacing the glass in the package. costlier than a brand-new double-glazed window. In addition, the double-glazed windows will be installed by the same company that performed the repairs, and this will come with an additional cost of between 2,000 and 4,200 rubles per m2. Consequently, it is preferable for apartment owners who are hands-on to decline such a service (this advice does not extend to individuals who are not accustomed to counting money).

"Yes, but only after visiting the customer." A brief description of this type of glass replacement is necessary: knee repair. We will provide thorough instructions for making a replacement with your own hands at the conclusion of the work, for those who prefer to learn from their own mistakes.

Why doesn’t a double-glazed unit’s glass get changed at home? After all, it doesn’t seem that hard to remove the double-glazed window from the sash, cut the mastic around the broken glass with a sharp knife, remove the fragments, and dust and clean the camera.

When cutting new glass to fit the spacer frame, there are no problems. Really, nothing is wrong with this. They operate on a different level: it is not feasible to replicate the technological environment needed to assemble a double-glazed window at home: warm, dry air that is free of dust when sealing the entire structure.

It is not effective to seal the chamber externally:

• thoroughly wash and dry the glass so that the smallest specks do not fall on it during drying;
• keep silica gel in working condition – its balls will have time to collect moisture from the air in a short period of time (the air in the chamber is dry);
• apply the mastic in an even layer, as a result of which, when installing the package into the window sash, damage to the sealant may occur;
• thiokol is difficult to find on sale in compact packages – mainly in two-hundred-liter barrels.

In what cases is it permissible to replace glass alone?

There are some exceptions to the aforementioned advice. In three situations, replacing the glass package entirely is not financially advantageous:

• There is stained glass in the window. Replacing one sheet is much cheaper than replacing several expensive glasses;
• A three- or four-chamber package is mounted in the frame;
• An expensive thick triplex was installed in the door from the street, and the internal glass was broken.

In these instances, the price of repairs is less than that of a double-glazed window that is finished.

Instructions for replacing glass units

It is not impossible for someone with basic tool skills to replace the double-glazed glass in a plastic window on their own. The following sequential operations make up the entire process:

1. a set of tools is being prepared;
2. the glass unit is measured;
3. an order is made;
4. the damaged glass unit is dismantled;
5. new glass is installed;
6. the sash is adjusted.

Tools and materials

Reassembling a broken glass unit requires the fewest tools possible. Required:

• roulette;
• calipers;
• rubber mallet (mallet);
• a spatula or a simple screwdriver (you can also use a large kitchen knife, but this is not entirely convenient);
• gloves;
• an old sheet or piece of other fabric that you don’t mind throwing away.

Metering

The height, width, and thickness of the double-glazed window, as well as the number of air chambers, must be specified when placing an order for one. All of this information is available on the spacer frame (see photo), which also prints the package’s dimensions (height, length, and thickness) and formula (number and thickness of each glass). In the event that the owner is unable to locate the inscription, measurements may be taken by him.

Important: Removing the glass unit and measuring it is the simplest option. However, even with this kind of planning, the window won’t have glass for a few days because it takes time to create a new double-glazed window. As a result, measurements are made inside the sash itself.

Using a tape measure, measure the distance along the window’s width and height between the profiles of the sashes that have broken glass. According to a number of publications, the measurement is made of the distance between the glazing beads’ external dimensions. The adjustment gap is deducted from the results by 2 cm, or 1.0 cm on each side.

The double-glazed window formula, for example, 4 + 10 + 4 + 10 + 4, where 4 is the glass thickness in mm and 10 is the frame width in mm, is a crucial parameter since it shows the thickness of each glass and the space between them inside the chamber. These digits need to be printed on the spacer bar and entered into the window passport. You can take a separate measurement in the event that the passport is misplaced and has no inscription. A caliper measures with perfect accuracy, while a tape measure has an error of up to 1 mm. Work process:

1. The thickness of the sash profile is measured (for example, 70 mm);
2. Determine the thickness of the bead and rubber seal (located indoors). To do this, the end of the measuring tool rests on the glass and looks at the distance at which the plane of the sash is located (approximately 14 mm);
3. A similar procedure is carried out on the street side (20 mm).

A student in the second grade can do the following: subtract 14 and then 20 sequentially from 70. Experts will be able to develop a glass unit formula and utilize it to make new glass thanks to the 36 mm result.

Order

It suffices to specify the package thickness, height, width, and number of chambers on the application form in order to create a double-glazed window with angles of 90 degrees. The formula will be independently calculated by the manufacturer’s specialists and used to produce new window glass. If there are any curved shapes or non-rectangular angles (such as glass shaped like a circle, triangle, rhombus, etc.), everything becomes much more complicated. How can the glass unit be changed in this situation?

Dismantling the broken glass is necessary in this situation (see how to do this below). After lining up the removed glass on whatman paper, the damaged package’s shape is cut out with scissors. At times, a razor is used to quickly cut out the template. In a few days, a new double-glazed window will be made based on the completed pattern.

Dismantling

The directions for removing a damaged double-glazed window are straightforward. There are several consecutive operations that make up the entire process:

1. An old sheet or other fabric, large in size for the glass unit, is spread on the floor in front of the window.
2. Broken glass is carefully taped in several directions with tape so that the fragments do not fall out during the process of removing the bag and cause injury to others.
3. The glazing beads are removed. To do this, you need a sharp and hard tool, for example, a chisel, a flat screwdriver or spatula, as well as a mallet (rubber hammer). It is necessary to start with longer glazing beads, usually side ones – it is easier to bend them when removing them from the sash grooves.

Be aware that nearly all manuals for taking apart double-glazed windows state that taking off the side beads is the first step in taking apart the sash. They cannot, however, be taken out of the transom without harming it. Consequently, we highlight the fact that the top and bottom glazing beads in the transom are the longer ones that are first removed.

To take out the bead, you ought to:

• Insert a spatula (chisel or screwdriver) into the gap between the sash profile and the bead in the middle of the window;
• Holding the tool strictly horizontally, hit it several times, not very hard, with a mallet until a gap of 1-2 mm is formed. Further, the technology varies slightly among different specialists; Some make such a gap along almost the entire length, and then return to the middle, others, immediately tilting the tool down, knock the bead completely out of the grooves of the sash in its center;
• When you can grab the glazing bead with your fingers, it pulls towards itself and to the side – it will come out easily;

Important: If the thickness of the sash changes, you will need to purchase new glazing beads and cut them correctly. Therefore, you should mark the grooves on the sash when removing the glazing bead with a pencil or marker to make it easier to install a new double-glazed window later on.

• The top latch is removed last – protects the glass from accidental falling. Here you need an assistant to support the glass;
• The package is removed from the sash. If difficulties arise, the sealant of the bag has stuck to the plastic of the window, the glass is pressed away from the frame with a sharp object;
• The removed package is placed on the fabric and carefully broken;
• Broken glass in a sheet is thrown into a trash container.

Installing new glass

The following procedures are involved in installing new glass:

• Check the fastening of the seal on the outside of the window;
• Richthoi plates are installed in the folds of the wings (they are also called gaskets): two from the bottom for the dull window (see. photo), four for the opening sash. In this case, they are installed one on each side diagonally, at a distance of approximately 10 cm from the corner of the sash (cm. photo).

Be aware that different manufacturers may use different numbers of strips, so when removing the glass, keep in mind where the gaskets are located.

For reference, the photo clearly shows the rebate, which is a plane that surrounds the sash’s perimeter and is where the double-glazed window is mounted.

• The glass unit is carefully placed on the gaskets. Here you need to check its position several times, since it will not be possible to correct the geometry in the future;
• A seal is installed on the inside of the glass unit;
• The beads return to their places in the reverse order: first the top, then the bottom and only then the side ones. In the grooves, they are driven by light tapping of a rubber hammer from the edges to the center. Fixation is confirmed by clicks.

Adjustment

There’s a chance the weight of the new double-glazed window will differ, requiring more sash adjustment. This can be accomplished by tightening the hinge adjustment screws with a "furniture wrench," as detailed in the article "How to adjust plastic windows."

The nuances of replacing double-glazed windows in a wooden frame

Glazing beads are used to secure the wooden euro-window frame to the double-glazed window, just like they would with a plastic window. There is a minor distinction, though: silicone sealant is utilized in place of a rubber seal.

Therefore, you must remove the silicone mastic and glazing beads before you can remove glass from a wooden sash. As a result, silicone must be applied again to the joints between the bag and the sash when replacing the glass.

DIY double-glazed glass replacement for plastic windows can be an affordable and rewarding home renovation project. Without professional assistance, you can restore the efficiency and appearance of your window by carefully following the step-by-step instructions and using the appropriate tools. In order to ensure a seamless and successful replacement, this guide will walk you through the steps and highlight important tips and safety precautions, saving you time and money.

The nuances of replacing double-glazed windows in stained glass windows

Stained-glass windows have a few features that make it impossible to replace or repair broken glass on your own:

• It is much cheaper to replace broken glass than to install a new package, and such work can only be performed by professionals in a specialized workshop;
• The glass is placed in special “stained glass cells”, which are removed outwards and not inwards, which requires aerial platforms or the installation of scaffolding;
• It is impossible to make a pattern based on the color scheme. It is necessary to deliver the whole glass to the workshop, where the necessary measurements will be taken using instruments, on the basis of which the glass will be reproduced.

Is it possible to change

In many cases, changing the number of cameras in a double-glazed window becomes possible when it is replaced.

Single-chamber double-glazed window to double-chamber

If two requirements are satisfied, it is feasible to swap out a single-chamber window glazing for a double-chamber one:

1. Double-glazed windows can be installed due to the sash rebate’s width. Here, you have two choices:

1. A package of three glasses is the same as a single -chamber – no problems arise;
2. the new package is wider, but due to the narrower glazing bead (you will have to buy new ones), it fits into the sash.

2. A heavier sash can be supported by the window profile and fittings (increases by about 30%). It is simpler to replace the entire window if strengthening the reinforcing plate inside the profile is required. If the hinges are the only issue, they are replaced.

Therefore, it is not advised to perform such a replacement on your own without first speaking with a specialist.

Two-chamber glass unit for a three-chamber

Under the same circumstances as above, a triple-glazed unit is installed in place of a two-chamber one. The only distinction is that a three-chamber unit weighs only 25% more than a two-chamber unit, meaning that the frame profile often does not need to be reinforced.

Instructions for replacing glass in a glass unit yourself

For individuals who prefer to handle tasks independently, we will offer guidelines on how to replace the glass in a glass unit using a home appliance.

For work, you’ll require:

• glass;
• butyl tape;
• silicone based sealant;
• chisel;
• rubber hammer;
• acetone (any other solvent);
• construction gun;
• diamond glass cutter.

The following is the work algorithm:

1. The glass unit is removed from the window block (you can see how this is done above) and placed on a flat surface with the damaged glass facing up;
2. Using a chisel or knife, the broken glass is removed from the bag, after which the aluminum frame is cleaned of sealant and debris;
3. The cleaned areas are degreased with a solvent;
4. New glass is cut;
5. The newly cut glass is washed and dried with warm air. The same operation is carried out on the glass surface where degreasing was carried out;
6. A layer of sealant is applied to the frame of the bag with a gun, after which new glass is laid down. You need to lay it down with a partner and immediately. It will be very difficult to fix;
7. Absorbent is poured under the spacer frame;
8. Seal sealing the package around the perimeter of glass;
9. After the sealant has hardened, the glass unit is placed in the sash.

Let us stress once more: "Knee repair" is not a permanent solution. Replacing the glass unit is the best course of action.

How much does a service cost in organizations?

Many factors come into play when determining the final cost of the work. Consequently, as of December 15, 2018, we provide the average lower and upper bounds of the price lists of a number of St. Petersburg and Moscow-based businesses:

• Replacement of a double-chamber double-glazed window – 2,000-4,200 rubles./m2 (delivery included);
• Double-glazed window repair – from RUB 1,000./m 2 up to 2,300 rub./ m 2 – work only. Transport costs and glass costs are not included here.

As a point of reference, new double-glazed windows from lesser-known companies start at 1,300 rubles per square meter. The starting price for well-known brands is RUB 2,050/m 2.

Step	Description
1. Remove Beading	Use a putty knife to gently pry off the beading strips around the glass.
2. Take Out the Old Glass	Carefully lift out the old double-glazed unit from the frame.
3. Measure for New Glass	Measure the height, width, and thickness of the old unit for an accurate replacement.
4. Install New Glass	Place the new double-glazed unit into the frame, ensuring it fits snugly.
5. Reattach Beading	Press the beading strips back into place around the glass to secure it.

Doing your own double-glazed glass replacement in a plastic window can be a worthwhile and affordable project. You can guarantee a successful and secure replacement procedure by being aware of the fundamental procedures and being well-prepared. To prevent any possible problems, it’s crucial to take your time, pay close attention to the directions, and use the appropriate tools.

It’s important to start with precise measurements. Having precise measurements now will save you the trouble of having problems with fit later. If there is anything you’re unclear about during the process, make sure to double-check your measurements and seek professional advice. Making this step precise will save you frustration and time.

Be cautious when it comes to taking out the old glass. Put on safety goggles and gloves to prevent injuries. Handling broken pieces and sharp edges may be part of the process. You can be sure that you’ll be safe when working on the window by taking these precautions.

The new double-glazed glass installation calls for patience and close attention to detail. In order to stop drafts and energy loss, make sure the glass is correctly seated and sealed. In addition to extending the window’s lifespan, proper sealing enhances its insulating capabilities.

Check to see if the window opens and closes smoothly after the installation is complete. Finding any gaps or misalignments will enable you to take quick action to resolve problems. This last stage guarantees that your window replacement is both aesthetically beautiful and functional.

You will feel good about upgrading your house and acquire useful skills by taking on this project yourself. Replacing double-glazed glass in a plastic window can be a simple and doable task if planned and executed carefully. Benefit from your labor of love with enhanced window performance and increased energy efficiency.

Video on the topic

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