French Door Double Pane Glass Replacement: What's New? No One Is Talking About
Replace the Glass in a French Door Without Buying a New Door
French doors are a stunning addition to any home. But, just like any other windows or doors, they can be damaged. It is, however, possible to replace the glass in a French door without having to purchase a new door.
Double pane (also called dual pane, insulated, or insulated glass) can cut down outside noise and increase energy efficiency. However, the seals in double pane glass may crack or break.
Installing a new pane of glass
French doors are popular with homeowners who want to add an elegant look to their homes, yet still allowing plenty of sunlight. They aren't impervious to accidents or breakage. A damaged glass pane is a major issue for anyone who loves the views and light these doors bring. The good news is that replacing these panes doesn't have to be an expensive or difficult task. Even DIY novices, equipped with basic tools and construction knowledge can replace window glass in a short time and with ease.
The first step in replacing the French door pane is to get rid of the old one. Begin by carefully removing pieces of glass that have broken off, and be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from sharp edges. Once repairmywindowsanddoors broken glass is removed, make note of the dimensions of the window opening to be able to order an additional pane from an hardware store or glass maker. It's important to order glass that is slightly larger than the original pane to allow for expansion and contraction when temperatures fluctuate.
Next, it's time to take the window sash off the frame. You may have to remove a few nails that are holding the glazing points or trim in place. It's essential to wash the sash thoroughly to ensure a smooth and safe fit for your new window. Be cautious not to take off too much wood or old putty because this could cause the frame to crack.
Once the sash is removed, you can begin installing your new window pane. Be sure to measure the window's opening first, then subtract 1/8th inch to allow for expansion as the frame heats up. This will prevent a sloppy fit and possibly leaks in the future.
After you have installed the new glass, apply a small amount of caulk or putty on the frame to keep it in the right place. When the caulk or putty is dry, you can paint it to match the rest of the door. If you are unsure about your abilities to finish the job, hire a professional window repair company or glazier to avoid costly errors.
Removal of the Broken Pane of Glass
A broken glass pane in a French-styled door can be more than just an eyesore. It could also be an injury risk. If it's not repaired quickly glass shards can fall and get stepped on. Most homeowners can replace the broken pane with a DIY project. However, it is essential to be cautious to ensure you don't get injured.
Wearing protective gloves, remove any glass pieces that are loose from the frame. Put them in a bag of paper and sweep the frame to remove all debris. If the glass is broken but not cracked you can tape both sides to prevent it from breaking while you remove it. Use a small tool to take off the trim pieces that are holding the window in place. They are referred to as stops and are usually secured by wire brad nails. Take the bottom stop off, then move up and around the frame.
After you have removed the trim from the door take a measurement of the width of the frame and height to determine the dimensions of the new glass. Most home improvement stores sell safety glass which is stronger and more durable than regular windows. Once you have the measurements, cut a piece of glass to fit inside the frame. You may have to smooth the edges of the glass to form it.
If your French doors have a traditional grid or grille, you'll need to replicate the design on the new pane. You can do this by putting decorative muntins on the glass's exterior or by placing functional bars in between two panes. This is known as grilles between glass. Genuinely styled divided lites are ideal for historic renovations or when a replica of the product is required by the Zoning Authority.
French doors can be an attractive addition to any home. But, they can be expensive. Contact us for a complimentary in-home consultation if you want to incorporate the beauty of French doors to your home without the cost.
Cutting a new Pane of Glass
A French door can be enhanced in energy efficiency by adding a third pane of glass or by replacing one that is damaged. Triple-pane glass can also help reduce the transmission of noise and increases comfort for homes subject to extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes. The addition of functional muntins between the two panes may make a classic french door look more attractive. This creates a grid or grille, also known as Simulated Dividing Lites (SDL). The bars can be put on the inside or outside of a window. They can also be of different sizes and spacings to create different styles.
Replacing a glass pane in a French door is not an easy task, but it is achievable with some basic tools, patience and knowledge. The first step is to remove the old glass. Then the new pane can be cut and then inserted into the frame. Then, the frame can be replaced and caulked to seal the edges of the frame.
Before purchasing a brand new pane of glass, it is crucial to measure the size of the pane that is already in use and subtract 1/8" to account for expansion of the glass as it gets heated. This will determine the size at which the new glass pane has to be purchased from the hardware store.
The new pane of glass can be cut to size and then placed into the frame. Install the new low-e glass with the low e coating facing the house. Reversing the pane can adversely affect its performance.
With a putty-blade Use a putty knife to gently remove the trim that was attached to the glass pane, without breaking it. Install the new trim and then apply a small amount of caulk around the edges. The window panes can then be painted to match your door frame.
A professional can complete the job faster and more accurately, but it is still recommended to practice before undertaking this task at home. If you are unsure you are, call a local business to replace the double paned glass on your french doors.
Installing a New Pane of Glass
Installing a safety glass pane that is of the same size is the most efficient method of replacing a French door window. However, if you want to achieve a stylish effect, a decorative window company can create a custom-sized piece of glass that is designed to fit inside the door frame.
Before installing the new pane, make sure it is not only an identical size, but also a perfect match in style and color. If the color isn't correct, it will be very evident and could affect the look of your home. If the glass is not fitted correctly, it can also break. To ensure your windows appear as good as they can ensure that the new glass is secured with caulking or putty that is in line with the rest of the frame.
A typical French door will include anywhere between 12 and 16 glass panes. You can add decorative muntin bars on the individual glass panes of these doors or window frames to add an element of design. This can create windows with a the classic grid or grille pattern, that is typically used in renovations of the past when precision in replication of the product is essential or required by zoning regulations.
To put in the new glass pane, carefully remove the window sash from the frame. This is usually accomplished by removing the sash from the frame or by pinning it. Take out any glazing points, putty or other fasteners holding the old glass in place. Be sure to wear safety glasses or gloves to avoid cutting yourself from sharp edges or broken glass shards.
After the window sash as well as the glass pane have been removed, wipe any caulk or putty off the frame's inside to make it easier to replace the new pane of glass. Next, take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height to ensure that the glass replacement is cut correctly. Ask the glass company in your area to assist you when you're not sure how to measure the window accurately.
If you're experienced with DIY and construction work, changing a double-pane glass on your French door should be a fairly simple task. If, however, you're not a skilled DIY-er, it's more secure and cost-effective to let a professional take care of the job. A window company can be able to swiftly and efficiently repair or replace the broken French door pane of glass.