The sound of a bat cracking a baseball. A shattering crash. You now have a baseball-sized crack (or hole!) in your window. What are you supposed to do?
Navigating window glass replacement can be challenging — but not when you’re properly informed. Below is a short guide that covers everything you need to know about replacing your broken window glass.
Can Mechanical Damage on a Window Be Repaired?
A baseball slammed into your window and now you’re left with a crack with a starburst pattern that radiates from the middle. You may be wondering, “Can this even be repaired?” Unfortunately, usually not.
Even if your window has a small crack, with any fluctuating temperature change, it’ll start to spread, allowing drafts, moisture intrusion, and water leaks — all affecting your utility bills. Your best option when you have an impact crack in your window (like a crack from a baseball) is to replace it entirely.
Replacing Broken Window Glass
First, you need to determine the type of window you have and its size. Be sure to take accurate measurements. Next, determine whether you need to replace only the glass or the entire window due to damage to the sash or the frame.
Make sure you have all the necessary tools and a lot of protective gear. Damaged glass can easily break when removing, and you need to be careful with sharp glass shards. If the entire window is shattered, the remaining pieces will be easier to remove and dispose of. If the damage appears to be a small section, you’ll still have to remove the entire window section, but you must be very careful removing it from the window frame to ensure it doesn’t shatter while you’re holding it.
Lay a drop cloth in front of the broken window to protect your floors and furniture near the damaged window. While you’re waiting for your replacement glass to come in, board up your window to secure your home safely and help retain heating and cooling.
You’ll need a replacement pane from an experienced glazier. Make sure your dimensions are correct before ordering. If you are experienced working with glass, you can cut your own pane with a handy glass cutter.
Clear your window frame before putting in your replacement glass, and use the proper tools to install it. Your manufacturer’s manual should tell you exactly what tools you should use. Sometimes you get lucky and they’ll also send easy-to-follow installation instructions.
Next, you can install your new window pane. If your glass is the correct size, you can carefully insert it with a glazier’s tool and putty. Move slow and steady with an extra pair of hands if you need them so you don’t break your new replacement glass.
There are quite a few tutorials online for a DIY project, but it is always best to get help from a window installation professional, especially when the entire window needs to be replaced. Unskilled replacement of windows can lead to even more damage ranging from water leaking, improper sealing, introduction of drafts into your home and increased heating/cooling costs.
How KC Window & Glass Can Help
KC Window & Glass offers a wide range of solutions for the repair and replacement of windows, tailored to fit every need. Broken glass is always cause for concern — from safety issues to increased energy bills — which is why KC offers a 2 business-day turnaround on quotes.
We specialize in vinyl and fiberglass window replacements. All we need is a little information and a few rough measurements, and we can replace your window in no time.
Did a baseball go through one of your standard windows? Don’t worry. We repair and replace windows of all kinds. From double or triple pane to all types of frame materials — we’ve got you covered.
We also repair, replace and service interior and exterior glass doors, including both sliding and french doors. Whether the door is sticking when you open it, your glass is fogging up due to condensation or a baseball has gone right through the middle, we can make your door look brand new.
What if a baseball goes through your skylight? Not a problem. We repair, replace and upgrade skylights as well. Our upgrades include changing existing glass to high efficiency, sound-reducing glass for a more comfortable home along with adding solar-powered motorized venting units to make your home most sustainable.
Our team is experienced and professional, ready to give you the best service at the best price. We offer a one-year warranty on our window installation on top of the manufacturer’s warranty. You can rest easy knowing that you are covered and protected for the next flying baseball that comes your way.
Are you considering repairing or replacing your windows? KC Window & Glass can provide you with a solution. See what we can do for you.
