How to Replace a Broken Glass Window Pane

A broken glass window is rite of passage for most kids. Baseballs, golf balls, tennis balls, and a myriad of other objects that kids love to play with can all cause a window to get busted. And let’s face it, adults break them as well. In any case the replacement of a broken glass pane in a wood frame window is a relatively simple project that almost anyone can accomplish. The cost of repairing a broken window pane is very modest, especially when compared against hiring a professional to complete the job.

The tools needed for this project are fairly simple. You will need a putty knife or similar tool, glazing compound, and of course a new piece of glass. You may also need glazing points but can probably reuse the existing ones. Glazing compound is a putty-like product that creates a seal between the glass and the window frame. Glazing points are small metal objects that hold the glass against the window frame. If possible, it is best to remove the remaining broken glass and frame to properly measure the window. Then go to a hardware store and have them cut a piece of glass to replace it. Measure the entire opening from frame to frame then subtract an 1/8 of an inch.

The first step to repairing the window is to remove the broken glass. Carefully remove the existing glass by grasping it with a rag or wear cut resistant gloves and pull the glass straight out toward the center of the window opening. Place the broken pieces of glass into a sealed container before disposing of it into the trash (recycle where available). Next, remove any trim / molding, glazing putty, and glazing points from the window frame.

After you have acquired the new glass, place it into the frame. Carefully push the glazing points into the frame taking care not to exert too much force onto the glass. Now run a bead of glazing compound around the edge where the glass meets the window frame. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to complete this step. If you have molding to replace do so carefully. You may want to drill the molding to assure you don’t split it as well as lowering the force needed to nail it back into place and thus reducing the likelihood of breaking the new glass. Follow the glazing compound instructions for time to dry before painting.