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Cracked glass can be very dangerous, whether it’s a wine glass or a glass window. Even more so when there are kids around.
A crack in the glass increases the chances of the whole glass shattering, even after the smallest hit. When it comes to windows, that includes strong wind or snow. Luckily, there are some safety measures you can take to keep the crack from spreading.
You can fix a small crack alone, with just a few basic supplies. Bigger cracks will definitely require professional attention. By fixing cracked glass yourself you can get rid of mold, clouded glass, sweating window panes, and room drafts. You can also save thousands of dollars, or at the very least put off spending that money on a new window.
Here are some tips on how to fix a cracked glass window. Remember, that most of these are temporary fixes only. You should seek long-term solutions for glass repair.
Tape
Tape is a short-term solution you can use until you’re able to replace the glass.
- Apply clear packing tape or masking tape on both sides of the glass to cover the crack completely. The tape will stop water from coming in through the crack, and the crack won’t spread.
- Make sure the tape extends past the crack and adheres firmly. Be very gentle and don’t press on the glass too hard, it might break even more and you can cut yourself.
Using tape is quick, easy, and cheap, especially if you have tape at home. Do it immediately as soon as you notice the crack. This method won’t work with extraordinarily big and deep cracks, or with multiple cracks.
Nail Polish
All you need to do is fill the crack with nail polish.
- Apply a large amount to fill the crack completely, and wait for it to dry.
- After the first layer has dried, reapply the nail polish again and again until the crack is filled.
This method will only work for small cracks.
How to Fix a Cracked Glass Window for Air Insulation
If you’re losing heat or AC through the crack, it’s best to call a professional right away. In the meantime, you can try the following hacks:
Thick plastic
Get a shopping bag and cut out a square of thick plastic. Make sure it’s big enough to cover the crack completely. Then, use duct tape to secure the plastic on the glass. Make sure the crack is covered.
Bubble wrap
This method is good for a storm window. Stuff bubble wrap between the window panes for better insulation.
Caulking gun
Check the glass and window frame for gaps. If there are any, you can seal them with a caulking gun.
Glass Repair Adhesive
This is a long-term solution you can use to repair your glass. It is also quite easy and you will be able to do it yourself. This method requires sealing the hole with a special adhesive used for car windshield repair.
- Start by cleaning the crack to make sure there is no dust in the hole.
- Then, apply tape to the backside of the hole so that the adhesive doesn’t come out.
- Get a piece of cardboard or a disposable plate, and mix up two-part epoxy. Do so in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the chemicals.
- Mix the epoxy with a toothpick for around 20 seconds.
- Once you have your solution, you have to use it right away before it hardens. You will have around 5-10 minutes. Press the epoxy into the crack with a putty knife and work it back and forth across the crack.
- Fill it and let it settle for 5 minutes.
- Then, scrape away the excess with a razor blade and wipe the affected area with a clean rag with some acetone.
- Let the glass rest for 24 hours, and polish it with a clean rag with a bit of glass cleaner. The glass will look as good as new!
Mesh Patch of Nylon
- Cut a piece from a pair of nylon stockings. Make sure it’s big enough to cover the crack.
- Apply super glue to the edges of the piece and place it over the crack.
- Keep pressing it gently until the glue dries and the piece adheres to the glass.
It won’t look very good, but it will keep cold air and bugs out of the room.
Additional Tips
- If you want to stop the crack from spreading, score a small arc with a glasscutter right under the crack. The crack shouldn’t spread past the arc.
- If you don’t have curtains and want to cover a clear bathroom window, apply a mixture of 4 tablespoons of Epsom salt and 1/2 pint of stale beer to the window. It will make the glass opaque without taking away the natural sunlight.
Remember that you will have to replace the glass eventually! Cracked glass is a safety hazard, so have an expert replace it as soon as possible. These tips are not long-term solutions.
When Should You Replace a Cracked Glass Window?
- If the glass broke and is no longer encased within the frame.
- If the broken window created a safety hazard.
- If you have a double-pane window and the crack broke the seal.
Ending thoughts on how to fix a cracked glass window
You might be wondering how to replace a window and if you can do it yourself. Replacing the glass in a single-pane window might be something you could do yourself, though it requires some level of expertise.Replacing a broken pane in a modern insulated window, however, is beyond the capabilities of an inexperienced person.
We recommend you hire a professional either way, to make sure you don’t get hurt and the window is replaced safely.
Even if your window only has a small crack, it can get much bigger with time. Don’t wait any longer and try one of the tips above. Have a look at the glass repair adhesive, as it offers a more long-term solution. If you can, call a professional as soon as possible.
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