How to Replace Broken Glass Without Replacing the Whole Window

If you have a window with broken or cracked glass you may not have to replace the entire window. Instead, you can replace just that piece of glass if the window frame is wood and not vinyl.

While this project requires you to get a piece of glass custom cut for your window, do not let that discourage you from completing this project. Once the glass has been cut by a professional, the installation process should be complete in less than a half hour.

Step 1: Remove any putty or caulk around the broken glass with a putty knife. If the putty if very difficult to remove from the window frame, you can use a hair dryer to heat the putty until it becomes more supple. Then you can peel it away and discard it.

Step 2: Remove all of the old glass from the area that is broken wearing work gloves to protect your hands.

Step 3: Measure the resulting opening carefully, then bring your measurements and a sample of the glass to a home improvement center that will be willing to cut some custom glass for your window.

Step 4: Clean the window frame, removing any dust or dirt and repainting or sealing the frame as necessary.

Step 5: Roll a long bead of glazing compound, also called window putty. Place it in the window frame, so it will come in contact with the bottom of the new piece of glass.

Step 6: Press more rolls of glazing compound around the window opening until everywhere the glass would hit the window frame is covered.

Step 7: Press the new piece of glass into place. Put glazier points in front of the glass in the window to prevent it from falling out while the glazing compound cures.

Step 8: Smooth the glazing compound with a putty knife lightly dipped in mineral spirits. Hold the putty knife at a 45 degree angle, cleaning up any imperfections. You should also use the putty knife to apply glazing compound over glazier points.