Re-Glaze Exterior Windows to Save Energy

Re-Glaze Exterior Windows to Save Energy

If painting the exterior of your home is on your summer must-do list, re-glazing those flaking exterior windows should be as well. It’s one of the simplest home fixes a homeowner can do. Not only will re-glazing deteriorated windows make your home more attractive and appealing, but it will also increase energy efficiency. Invest a few dollars in materials, and a summer afternoon, and you’ll save huge on your heating and cooling bill.

You do not have to remove windows to re-glaze them. This can easily be accomplished from a ladder. You’ll need the following tools and materials:

Ladder (step or extension ladder, depending your needs)
Putty Knife
Scraper (a 5-in-1 painter’s tool is handy for this task}
Points
Glazing Compound

Steps:

With a hand scraper, remove loose and damaged window glazing. If needed, use a wire brush or heat gun to completely remove the old putty.
Clean the window of any dirt, as this will insure that the the putty adheres. You may even want to paint any exposed wood with either linseed oil or oil paint to give the new glazing compound a firmer grip. If you elect to paint bare wood prior to re-glazing you’ll need to wait for either the paint or linseed oil to dry before proceeding.
Replace points where needed
Once glass is clean and secure, knead a generous amount of glazing compound in your hand The heat from your hands will help make the compound more pliable than if it were applied cold from the can, thus making it easier to work with.
Create a glazing rope by rolling the glazing putty between your palms. Firmly press the the rope where glazing is missing and press firmly into place with your fingers
Smooth the new glazing compound with the tip of your putty knife set at a slight angle as you pull it across the putty
Clean away any excess putty
Paint once the glazing compound is “firm-set” or firm to the touch, generally about 7 days after re-glazing

Note: This technique is intended for wood sash windows.

And that is all it takes! You Can Do This!