How To Replace A Garage Window In 11 Steps (with Pictures)
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Codee Chessher
- Last updated:
If your garage window is damaged or outright broken, you’ll need to replace it in order to keep your home secure. Even if it’s just outdated, you may benefit from new advances in window technology that make windows more energy-efficient or durable.
While you can call a professional to replace it for you, it’s possible to save that cash and do it yourself if you have some tools and a good amount of old-fashioned elbow grease. Let’s check out what kind of preparation we need to do before we get to the meat of the task.
Preparation
Measure & Order New Glass
The first thing you’ll need to do is measure what size window you have and get a replacement pane. Measure the space within your window frame from top to bottom to get your window length, then side-to-side for the width. Subtract ⅛” to 1/16” and write these measurements down.
Call and research what home improvement stores near you cut glass to order—Lowe’s can usually do this, but call to be certain.
Ask for tempered or laminated glass, which are both much stronger than regular glass panes. Tempered glass is several times stronger than regular glass, and laminated glass has a film on both sides that helps reduce shattering when the glass is damaged.
- Putty knife
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Glass points
- Hairdryer/heat gun (optional)
- Fine-grit sandpaper (120+)
- Window glazing compound (silicone, caulking, etc.)
- Clear sealant/paint primer
How To Replace A Garage Window | Step-By-Step Guide
Note: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when doing home repair work to protect yourself from debris and other hazards.
1. Remove the glass points holding the glass in the frame, if the pane isn’t shattered. Do this by carefully sliding your putty knife behind the points and carefully loosening it until it comes loose. Do this for all glass points surrounding the window.
2. Use your putty knife to chip away any excess paint and glaze from the window, then lightly sand any residue. If the glaze is too tough, use a heat gun or hair dryer to loosen it. The goal here is to make the frame as close to new as possible so you ensure your new pane fits securely.
3. If your frame is wood, coat it with a clear sealant or paint primer and let dry.
4. Liberally apply the window glazing compound to the inside edges of the window frame. A thin bead of silicone works, or you can press glazing putty in with your thumbs.
5. Carefully lower your windowpane into the groove. Have a friend or family member help if necessary.
6. Press the glass into place lightly to embed it into place. It should rest comfortably within the groove and be secured by the glaze.
7. Place glass points into place every 4 to 6 inches around the window. These are placed flat against the glass.
8. Using the edge of your putty knife, carefully tap the glass points to drive them into the wood frame.
9. Apply more of the glazing compound around the edges of the glass to cover up the glass points and further secure the window.
10. Wait until your window glazing compound dries and sets according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
11. If desired, paint the window with your paint of choice.
Photo Credit: Roseanna Smith, Unsplash
Which Window Glazing Compound Is Best?
There are several types of glazing compounds you can use to secure your window against drafts and moisture. Traditionally, glazing putty was used for this task, but today we have other worthy alternatives.
- Glazing putty takes several days to cure but can last decades if properly applied and cured. The only downside of putty is that cheap types can get too hard and become brittle over time, but overall glazing putty is a solid choice for repairing any window if you want it to last. The only maintenance necessary for putty is that you apply some linseed oil to it every 3 to 5 years.
- Silicone caulk is generally easier to apply than putty but doesn’t last anywhere near as long. Silicone caulked windows will usually need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years. The main benefits of using silicone are that it dries and cures in just a day or two, and it requires no maintenance.
Featured Image Credit: bruce mars, Unsplash
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