1Make cracks safe
2Cover shattered pane
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HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCIES
Structural problems
Most structural problems can be prevented by performing regular internal and external maintenance checks. Look at the condition of your windows, doors, roof, walls, fences, and drains, and deal with minor defects immediately before they become major problems. Even in a well-maintained home, however, there is plenty that can go wrong – windows get broken, doors stick, roof tiles fall off, and holes appear in gutters – but the advice here will help you at least make a temporary repair before seeking expert advice.
SECURING BROKEN PANE OF GLASS
1Make cracks safe
• If the glass is cracked, cover the crack( s) with clear, self-adhesive waterproof repair tape on both sides of the glass to hold it together temporarily.
• Either replace the pane yourself( see opposite) or get a glazier to do the job for you.
Tape over the cracks carefully to avoid breaking the glass
2Cover shattered pane
• If the glass is shattered, cover the outside of the hole with a sheet of polyethylene and secure it to the frame with battens and pins or strong tape.
• For greater security, screw a sheet of 1 ⁄ 2-in( 12-mm) thick plywood over the inside of the broken door or window pane.
• If you feel that you can do the job, replace the glass yourself( see opposite), or ask a glazier to do it for you.
CHOOSING AND MEASURING FOR REPLACEMENT GLASS
• Safety glass is reinforced in manufacture and must be used when glazing a very large area, such as
a patio door or picture window, where it could be mistaken for an opening, or where glass will be fitted within 31 in( 80 cm) of the floor.
• There are three types of safety glass: toughened glass, laminated glass, and wired glass. If you
need to use safety glass, discuss with your glass merchant which type is most suitable for the window or door in question.
• If the glass is patterned, take a piece to match with the new glass.
• Measure the height and width of the opening, going right into the groove cut for the glass in
the frame. Cut away any old putty or remove old bead to make sure. Since the cavity may not be square, take two measurements on each dimension and use the mid-point as your figure.
• Measure the two diagonals of the opening. If they are not the same, make a cardboard
template to give to your glass supplier.
• Buy a pane of glass that is 1 ⁄ 8 in( 3 mm) smaller than the cavity on each dimension; also buy
some putty and some glazing points.