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How To Replace Window Glass | Roo's Door & Window Maintenance
If you're a homeowner who's wondering if they can replace window glass themselves, the short answer is yes, in some circumstances you can. Whilst not all windows are suitable for amateur replacement, if you've got a standard uPVC double-glazed window and want to replace just one of the panes, rather than the whole unit, it's possible to do so with just a few tools.
Read on for the steps to take when you want to replace a pane of glass in a double-glazed unit, as well as a list of the circumstances when it's usually preferable to get a professional out to do the job.
What do I need to replace window glass?
To replace a pane of glass in a uPVC frame (where the beading clicks into place and doesn't require putty), you will need:
- A fresh pane of glass with the correct dimensions.
- Packers
- A palette knife
- A rubber-headed hammer
- Protective gloves
What are the steps to replace glass in a window?
- Prise the beading away from one side of the window using the palette knife - insert the palette knife at an angle between the beading and the frame, then use the hammer to apply some pressure as you work your way down the length of the beading. With some wriggling, it should be possible to slide the beading away.
- Repeat the process for the bottom, other side and top beading strips. Make sure you place the strips of beading so that you know which strip will go where when you replace it.
- Once all four pieces of beading are removed, you should be able to gently tap the pane and it will come away from the frame.
- Place the new pane of glass in the frame, Use the packers (if necessary) to ensure that it fits snugly and is well supported.
- Clip the beading back into place, starting at the bottom, followed by the top piece of beading. Finally, replace the beading on each side of the new pane, using the hammer to knock it into position. Your window should now be almost as good as new!
When is a DIY replacement job not a good idea?
Replacing a pane in a clip-together uPVC double-glazed unit is usually pretty straightforward. Unfortunately, other types of windows may not be so simple. We strongly recommend using a professional to replace window glass when:
- The glass is set into a timber frame.
- An entire uPVC unit needs replacing, rather than just one pane of glass.
- The glass won't come away easily from the frame, or the beading is stuck into position.
- You have lattice windows or another type of decorative design.
- You have a sash window.
- A large pane needs replacing - glass is heavy and large-scale replacements should not be attempted single-handed.
- If you want the pane replaced with non-standard glass - for example, if you want a tinted glass.
If you're not confident in your DIY skills, or want to be certain that the job will be done to the highest possible professional standards, give
Roos Doors a call on
(0404) 000 805.
