Replace a cracked storm window
If your storm window frame is machine pressed at the corners, take it to a hardware store for repair. It’s too much hassle to do it yourself. But storm windows with screws or friction-fit fasteners at the corners allow for easy disassembly and reassembly. You may need to order parts online; two sources are reflectwindow.com and dkhardware.com. Here’s how to replace a broken pane.
1 REMOVE BROKEN GLASS
If the glass is just cracked, carefully remove the storm window, frame and all. Tape the cracks so the glass stays put. If the glass is in pieces, carefully remove them, wearing leather gloves and eye protection, then vacuum the frame and window area thoroughly before removing the frame.
2 MEASURE FOR NEW GLASS
Before you disassemble the frame, measure the inside width and height. Measure the depth of the channel using a flat ruler and add that to the height and width of the frame’s interior dimensions.
3 DISASSEMBLE THE FRAME
For friction-fit frames like this one, clamp one frame side to a work surface. Separate the frame parts using a hammer and a wood block. Remove any remaining glass and the rubber gasket, being careful not to tear it. If the gasket is in good shape, reuse it. Vacuum the work area.
4 INSTALL THE GLASS
Apply the gasket over the edge of the new glass. If it’s a new gasket, make small cuts at the corners to help make the turns. Tap the side frames on first, using a rubber mallet. Align the corner keys on the frame top and bottom with the corners of the sides, and gently tap the frame pieces home.