Replace the Glass in a French Door Without Buying a New Door
French doors are a gorgeous addition to any home. However, like any windows or doors, they can be damaged. It is, however, possible to repair the glass on the case of a French door without having to purchase a new door.
Double pane glass (also called dual pane or insulated) can provide energy efficiency, noise reduction and much more. Double pane glass seals can break or crack.
Installing a new piece of glass
French doors are popular with homeowners who wish to add an elegant look to their home, yet still allowing plenty of light. However, they aren't impervious to accidents and breakage, and a broken glass pane can cause big inconvenience for anyone who appreciates the views or sunlight these doors can provide. Fortunately, the good news is that replacing these window panes isn't an expensive or difficult task. Even DIY novices, equipped with basic tools and some construction experience can change window glass quickly and securely.
The first step to replacing the French door pane is to remove the old one. Wear gloves and safety glasses and remove any broken pieces of glass. Once the broken glass is removed, note the dimensions of the window's opening, to be able to order the new pane at an hardware store or glass maker. Order a glass pane that is slightly bigger than the original to take into account temperature fluctuations.
The next step is to take the window sash off the frame. You may have to take out a few nails that hold the trim or glazing points in place. It's important to clean the sash thoroughly to ensure a smooth, snug fit for the new window. Be cautious not to pull out too many of the wood pieces or old putty, since this can cause the frame to split and then cause damage later on.
After the sash has been removed Once the sash is removed, you can begin to install your replacement window pane. Make sure you measure your window's opening first before subtracting 1/8th inch to allow for expansion when the frame heats up. This will prevent a sloppy fitting and leaks in the future.
After you have put in the new glass then apply a small amount of caulk or putty around the frame to keep it in place. After the caulk is dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the door. If you aren't sure about your ability to complete the task, consider hiring an expert window repair service or glazier to avoid costly errors.
Removal of the Broken Pane of Glass
A glass pane that has been damaged in a French door isn't just a nuisance, but it could also pose a safety hazard. If it's not replaced promptly, shards of glass can fall and be stepped on. Replacing the broken pane is a fairly simple DIY project for the majority of homeowners However, it's crucial to take the appropriate precautions to make sure you're not risking injury to yourself.
Wearing protective gloves, remove any loose glass pieces from the frame. Place them in a bin of paper and sweep the frame to remove all debris. Tape both sides of the glass if it is cracked but not broken. french door hinge repairs whitstable will stop it from breaking as you take it off. Then take a small plier bar to cut off the trim pieces that are keeping the window in place. These are referred to as stop. They are usually held in place by wire brad nail. Take off the bottom stop first and then work towards the top and sides of the frame.
After you've removed the trim take a measurement of the length and width of the door frame to determine what size new glass pane is needed. Most home improvement stores sell safety glass that is stronger and more durable than regular windows. Once you have the measurements of the frame cut the glass to fit. You may need to file down the edges of the glass in order to shape it.
If your French doors have the classic grid or grille pattern You'll need to design the same pattern on a new glass. This can be achieved by adding decorative muntin bars to the outside of the glass or by placing functional bars between two glass panes and forming Grille Between Glass. Authentically-styled divided lites are best utilized for renovations that are historic and when product replication is required by Zoning authorities.
French doors are a stunning feature for any home. However, they are expensive. Contact us for a complimentary in-home consultation, if you'd like to incorporate the elegant look of French doors into your home without the price tag.
Cutting a new piece of glass
A french door can be made more energy efficient by adding a third pane of glass or replacing one that is broken. Triple-pane glass also helps reduce the transmission of noise and offers greater comfort in homes that are exposed to severe weather conditions such as hurricanes. The addition of functional muntins between the two panes could make a classic french door more decorative. This creates a grid or grille known as Simulated Dividing Lites (SDL). The bars can be placed either on the inside or outside of windows. They are also available in different sizes and spacings to create different styles.
It is not easy to replace a glass pane on french doors but with perseverance, some basic tools and some knowledge, it can be done. The first step is to take the old glass from the frame. The new pane is then cut and then inserted into the frame. Finally, the molding can be replaced and caulked to seal the edges of the frame.
It is essential to measure the size of your current pane of glass and subtract 1/8". This will take into account the expansion of the glass as it heats. This will determine the size of the glass pane that is to be ordered from the hardware store or glass manufacturer.
The glass pane will then be cut to the correct size before being inserted into the frame. If the glass is low-e, it should be installed with the low-e coating facing the interior of the home. If not, reversing the pane can negatively impact the glass's performance.
With a putty-blade use a putty blade to gently pull off the trim that was previously attached to the glass pane, without breaking it. Install the new trim, and then apply some caulk around the edges. The window pane can be painted to match the door frame.
Professionals can do the job much quicker and more accurately, but it is still a good idea to practice before attempting this task at home. If you're unsure you are, call a local business to fix the double paned glass on your french doors.
Installing a New Pane of Glass
Installing a safety glass pane that is the same size is the simplest method of replacing the French door window. If you prefer a more fashionable appearance the decorative glass business can design a piece of glass that will fit into the door frame.
Before you install the new window ensure that it is not only a similar size but also a perfect match in color and style. If the color isn't correct it will be noticeable and may detract from the appearance of your home. Furthermore, if the glass isn't properly positioned, it may break. To make your windows appear as good as they can ensure that the new pane is secure by caulking or putty that is in line with the rest of the window frame.
A traditional French door can have between 12 and 16 glass panes. You can add decorative muntin bars to the individual glass panes of these doors or window frames to add a design element. This can give the windows an elegant grid or grille pattern, that is typically used in older renovations where precision in replication of the product is essential or is required by zoning laws.
Remove the window sash carefully from the frame. This is usually accomplished by unscrewing the sash or pin it. Then, remove any remaining glazing points, putty, or other fasteners that are keeping the old pane of glass in place. Wear protective gloves or glasses to avoid cutting yourself by sharp edges or glass shards.
After removing the window sash, remove any caulk or putty that is left on the frame. This will make it easier to replace a glass pane. To ensure that the new glass is correctly cut, measure the size and height of the window opening. Subtract 1/8 inch. Ask your local glass company to assist you when you're not sure how to measure the window accurately.
If you are familiar with DIY and construction work, changing a double pane glass panel on your French door is an easy task. However, if you are not typically a handy DIY-er, it's more secure and cost-effective to let a professional handle the job for you. A window company can be able to swiftly and efficiently repair or replace a broken French-door pane of glass.