How to Replace Broken Window Glass: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 30/01/2025

A broken window is more than just an eyesore; it's a security vulnerability and a potential draft in your home, compromising comfort and energy efficiency. Replacing the glass yourself can save you a significant amount of money compared to hiring a professional, and it's a surprisingly manageable DIY project for those with basic handiness. From shattered panes to simple cracks, the feeling of a compromised window is unsettling, leaving you exposed to the elements and potential intruders. This is particularly true in older homes with single-pane windows prone to damage.

Fortunately, restoring your window to its former glory is achievable with the right tools and a methodical approach. This guide will walk you through the process of safely and effectively replacing broken window glass, empowering you to tackle this common home repair. Let's get started with our step-by-step process below.

Safety Guidelines

  • Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from sharp glass fragments and potential injuries.
  • If the window is large or in a high location, consider seeking professional help. Attempting to replace it yourself could be dangerous.
  • Before starting, carefully examine the frame for any damage. A damaged frame may need repair or replacement before installing new glass.

Methods: Replacing Window Glass with a Rotary Tool and Silicone

Tools Needed

  • hammer
  • gloves
  • chisel
  • rotary tool
  • vacuum
  • glass cutter
  • clear silicone
  • window glazing putty
  • putty smoothing tool

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Remove Old Glass and Putty

    • Remove old putty and glass.
    • Clean the frame.
    Clean the frame.Clean the frame.
    Remove Old Glass and Putty

  2. Measure and Cut New Glass

    • Measure and cut new glass (frame to frame, deducting 1/8 inch or 3/16 inch).
    Measure and cut new glass (frame to frame, deducting 1/8 inch or 3/16 inch).
    Measure and Cut New Glass

  3. Apply Silicone Sealant

    • Apply a small bead of clear silicone to the frame.
    Apply a small bead of clear silicone to the frame.
    Apply Silicone Sealant

  4. Install New Glass

    • Insert the new glass into the frame.
    Insert the new glass into the frame.
    Install New Glass

  5. Apply and Smooth Putty

    • Apply window glazing putty to the edges of the glass, starting at the corners. Press firmly to ensure a tight seal.
    • Smooth the putty using a putty smoothing tool.
    Smooth the putty using a putty smoothing tool.Smooth the putty using a putty smoothing tool.
    Apply and Smooth Putty

Tips

  • Wear gloves to avoid cutting yourself and to keep the putty from getting on your hands.
  • Use a chisel for wood windows; a rotary tool can be used for aluminum frames to speed up the process.
  • Don't use too much putty, as it will be harder to clean up.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrectly Measuring the Glass

Reason: Taking inaccurate measurements leads to the new glass not fitting properly, causing gaps or an inability to install it securely.
Solution: Carefully and precisely measure the window frame multiple times using a metal ruler and double-check your measurements before purchasing replacement glass.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Glass

Reason: Using the wrong type of glass (e.g., using standard glass instead of tempered or laminated glass for safety) compromises the window's strength and security or violates building codes.
Solution: Determine the type of glass originally used and buy an exact replacement or consult a glazier to select the appropriate glass type for your window.

FAQs

Can I replace the glass myself, or should I call a professional?
While you can replace the glass yourself, especially for smaller windows, it's recommended to call a professional for larger or more complex windows, or if you're uncomfortable working at heights. Improper installation can lead to further damage or safety risks.