How to Fix a Crack In a Window

Did you know that a broken window, beyond being an undeniable eyesore, is likely costing you money by letting valuable energy leak out of your home? This is why it’s crucial to repair cracked window glass as early as possible before it becomes any worse.

When looking to repair a window crack, the first step is identifying the type of damage you’re dealing with. This will help you determine if you can repair the glass or if an entirely new replacement window is required.

Keep reading this guide on how to fix cracked window glass to learn more!

Types of Cracked Windows

Stress Cracks

In most cases, a stress crack will start small, typically near the edge of the window glass. Over time, this will expand and spread across the glass, resulting in a bigger issue than you may have anticipated.

Stress cracks are most often caused by intense fluctuations in temperature, specifically major variances between the two. For example, when it is extremely cold outside and you crank up the heat inside your home, the sudden and extreme difference can cause the glass to crack. It is also possible for stress cracks to appear due to more physical distress, such as slamming a window shut. Always treat your home’s windows with care to avoid a self-induced stress crack which will likely require costly repairs.

Pressure Cracks

A pressure crack is probably the least common kind of cracked window. It most commonly occurs in double-paned windows or insulated glass.

While it may seem to happen out of nowhere, this type of window glass crack is caused by dramatic shifts in pressure due to an inconsistency between the pressure outside the window and the gas fill between the panes. It can also happen if windows are installed at either too low or too high a level of elevation. In both scenarios, the windows would not be able to withstand the pressure, which would result in cracked glass.

You can tell that a pressure crack has occurred due to the pattern of the break in the glass. In most cases, the crack will follow a curve in the shape of an hourglass. This type of damage will most likely require a complete window replacement.

Impact Cracks

An impact crack is probably what first comes to mind when you think of cracked window glass. This type of crack is caused by the force of an object hitting your home’s window. You can usually tell this type apart because of the identifiable starburst pattern that spreads outwards from the point of collision.

For your safety, if you experience an impact break in one of your home’s windows, take caution when cleaning up. While you should remove any shards of glass that are inside your home, do not attempt to remove the broken window yourself. Leave this to a professional. They will have the tools and expertise to safely remove the broken glass and properly replace the window.

How to Fix Cracked Window Glass Temporarily

If you’re wondering how to fix a crack in a window, the safest and most effective solution is to install a new window made with more durable material. However, in the meantime, you can try one of the following fixes:

Masking Tape

If you’re a DIY person and wondering how to fix a cracked window, try applying masking tape to either side of the crack on the glass.

This will keep the glass intact and prevent it from breaking further, while simultaneously keeping water from leaking through. Make sure to extend the tape past the crack on both sides, pressing it firmly into the glass for the best results.

Glass Adhesive

Glass adhesives (a.k.a “glass glue”) for use on car windshields are also an option if you’re looking to fix cracked glass temporarily.

First, thoroughly clean the cracked glass to flush out debris. You can do this with an eyedropper before applying tape to the back of the crack, which keeps the adhesive from leaking out on the opposite side of the window. Next, using a syringe, apply a few drops of the adhesive to the crack and allow it to dry completely before you remove the tape.

Thick Plastic Cover

When figuring out how to fix a crack in a window, another temporary solution is to apply a thick plastic covering on top of the broken window. This will also keep drafts and bugs out.

Cut a piece of plastic that’s large enough to cover the surface area of broken glass from a shower curtain, tarp, or another household item made from a plastic sheet. Use duct tape to adhere to the edges of the plastic of the glass.

How to Fix Cracked Window Glass Permanently

Solvent-based adhesives like epoxy can be used as a sealant for broken glass windows. It’s an excellent way to keep the glass intact and prevent further damage for a significant time while you’re waiting for replacement.

You’ll need the following materials:

Step 1: Clean the Glass

Clean the window glass where there is a crack, using liquid dishwashing soap and a damp microfibre cloth to remove any dust, fingerprints, and oil residue. Leave it for a few minutes to allow it to completely dry.

Step 2: Combine the Hardener and Resin

Create a mixture of two-part epoxy by combining the hardener and the resin.

Use a toothpick to stir and blend the solution on a disposable cardboard or paper plate in a well-ventilated space. Be prepared to use the epoxy immediately, as it will harden within five to ten minutes, once it has been mixed.

Step 3: Apply the Epoxy With a Putty Knife

Apply the epoxy mixture on the broken glass using a putty knife, pressing gently to fill up the cracks. Leave it for at least five minutes to dry.

Step 4: Trim Any Excess Epoxy

Get rid of any excess epoxy that’s protruding on the surface using a sharp blade or a few drops of acetone on cotton or dry cloth. Allow 24 hours for the repaired glass to cure.

Step 5: Polish the Glass

Polish your glass window using a glass cleaner and a clean rag.

The Best Way to Repair Cracked Window Glass? A Brand New Window From Burano!

When it comes to window glass cracks, it is almost always recommended that you have a replacement window professionally installed. Replacing a window yourself might be tempting, but it can be extremely difficult, especially if you are dealing with a delicate insulation seal.

When a window’s glass cracks, the seal that contains the argon gas that insulates your windows leaks out, rendering your window ineffective and non-energy efficient. The one-time payment for new windows can cost you a lot less than what you’ll spend on increased energy bills.

Burano Doors has been providing Ontarians with top-quality window and door installations for over 40 years. One of our expert window technicians will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action for your cracked window glass.

Get in touch with us today to learn more or to get a FREE home estimate.