How to remove broken glass and putty

how-to-replace-broken-window-glass-2 How to remove broken glass and putty

Wearing gloves, pull out the glass shards. Remove the old glazing compound (soft, putty-like material that seals glass to window sash and sometimes to doors) one of these ways:
Rolling: Ease the corner of a scraper between the putty and the sash. Gradually roll the blade deeper till the putty gives way.
Scoring: Run a utility knife along a metal straight-edge to separate the compound from the wood.
Chiseling: If the first two methods fail, you can always chisel out the compound. Take care not to gouge the wood.
Pull out the old glazing points (metal fasteners that are used to hold glass in wood sash. May be triangular, diamond or arrow shaped).
Professional glaziers often use special, very expensive heating irons. Consumer alternatives such as heat guns and propane torches can do the job, but they are tough to control and can burn the wooden frame or crack the glass.

Safety tips
Patience and care are critical or you can damage the window or injure yourself. Always wear gloves and eye protection when there’s a risk of glass breakage. For more safety instructions please visit National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

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