Category Archives: Windows

Home windows can last decades, depending on building materials and local weather. Basic maintenance, like inspecting for mold and condensation and lubricating window tracks helps.

Unfortunately, you can’t account for freak accidents. With little warning, a stray rock or ball can cause a cracked or shattered glass window.

Window glass repair is your end goal, but what comes between it and the window breaking? What do you do about your shattered windows? Below is a detailed guide on home glass safety tips and DIY window repair solutions.

Safety First

The first step in emergency window repair is cleaning away broken glass.  Not only is it in the way, but touching and stepping on glass can cause serious health complications.

Use proper personal protection equipment (PPE) when dealing with glass shards. Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. “Cut-resistant” and “puncture-resistant” aren’t the same.

Gloves that protect against slicing may not defend against punctures. Cut-resistant isn’t the same as “cut-proof,” so handle the glass carefully. Wear durable, thick-soled shoes so the glass doesn’t puncture through.

Removing Glass Shards From Window Frames

Accidents may result in glass shards still attached to the frame. You can remove it or have the window replacement team do it. Wear your PPE to prevent injury.

Put a drop cloth under the window to catch the glass. You can set it on either side of the window. Use gentle but firm taps to push the glass toward the protective sheet.

Remember to tap from the opposite side where you lay the protective cover. If you lay the drop cloth outside, use the hammer from indoors. This keeps glass from flying near you and makes clean-up easier.

Finishing the Clean Up

You can focus on the fallen glass once you’ve cleared the remaining pieces from the frame. Remove larger shards from the interior and outdoor ground first.

They’re the easiest to handle, and the faster they’re gone, the less chance of splintering into smaller pieces. Put these glass shards into a paper or double-layered plastic bag.

Sweep up smaller, still visible glass chips from the ground and windowsill. Use a shop vacuum, if you have one, to make sure tiny chips and glass dust are gone.

Fixing a Shattered Glass Window

The average homeowner likely doesn’t have the skill to handle a shattered glass window. Your simplest choice to repair this is to call the professionals.

We’ve explained how to clean away broken glass above. Once you’ve completed the cleanup, go ahead with covering the hole. You’ll need something to keep out the weather and bugs.

Heavy-duty plastic and duct tape should take care of the hole. Cover both sides — indoors and out — with plastic and tape to create a strong, dual-sided seal.

Handling Shattered Tempered Glass

Standards set by the International Residential Code (IRC) mandate that doors and certain windows have tempered glass. Tempered, or safety glass goes through heat treatment to make it stronger than regular glass.

Sliding, French and shower doors, and windows nine square feet and larger are examples of doors and windows with this safety glass. Tempered glass can still break, but in ways that protect people.

One protective measure is when the glass breaks into rounded chunks instead of sharp shards. The other is the glass holds together, preventing window breakage.

Place a protective tarp under the glass in case it falls. It’ll make cleanup quicker, although you should still use PPE while clearing the mess.

Do not use a door or window with broken tempered glass until it’s replaced. You don’t want to make the damage worse or harm yourself.

How to Repair Window Cracks

The previous sections assumed your window was so broken the glass shattered. However, damage may present as small cracks or chips.

Addressing these may not seem important, but they can grow larger. Epoxy, glue, and clear nail polish are suitable temporary fillers for shallow cracks and chips.

First, clear the glass dust and debris from the damaged area with a toothbrush or microfiber cloth. You can then brush the substance over a crack or chipped spot.

Brush in the glue, epoxy, or nail polish deeply enough to fill the damage. Expect to do this a few times before you fill the gouge. Consider looking into window repairs after filling the crack.

Fixing Large Window Cracks

Windows with small damage may not need prompt replacement, but larger cracks require immediate repairs. Sometimes you may have trouble getting a company out for an emergency window fix.

A temporary patch job allows you enough time to shop for a replacement without worrying about worsening the crack. The first step to dealing with a large crack is seeing whether your window is stable.

You can gently press against the window to see if it shifts. Another way to tell if you have an unstable glass is if one side of the crack travels further up the window than the other.

There isn’t much DIY window repair solutions will do for an unstable cracked window. Your best choice is to call a professional so they can handle it. Don’t use the window or door to avoid worsening damage and injury.

You can go ahead with clearing away debris if your window is stable. Use a toothbrush or microfiber with soapy water to remove glass dust and other particles.

Once clean, gently cover the crack with duct or packing tape. The length of the tape should extend beyond the ends of the fracture. This will help keep the window together and the elements out.

Who’ll Replace Your Shattered Glass Window?

You can temporarily repair a cracked window. However, no at-home emergency window fix can help with a shattered glass window.

DIY window repair solutions clean and patch holes, but Cut Rate Glass can replace damaged glass. We love working with windows, and we’ve been doing it for more than 15 years.

We handle residential single and dual-pane replacements, glass repairs, and custom mirror installations. Cut Rate Glass offers quality work at competitive prices. Contact us for a free quote or to discuss your project.

Think about walking into a room bathed in natural light, where the windows are not just openings to the outside world but integral components of the room’s aesthetic and energy efficiency.

From sleek, minimalist designs that complement contemporary interiors to vintage-inspired frames that add character and charm, the window trends of 2024 cater to a wide range of tastes and needs.

We’ve got the information you need. Let’s go through the top window trends you should know about this year.

Modern Window Styles

Modern window styles are evolving to meet the demands of contemporary architecture and design preferences. These styles emphasize clean lines, expansive glass areas, and innovative functionalities that cater to both aesthetic appeal and practical needs.

The trend towards minimalist frames is gaining momentum, with sleek, narrow profiles that maximize the glass area. This style not only allows more natural light to enter but also gives your home a clean and sophisticated look. Minimalist frames work well with various architectural styles, from modern to industrial.

Pivot windows are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes for their unique design and functionality.

These windows rotate on a central axis, providing excellent ventilation and a striking architectural feature. They are ideal for contemporary homes looking to make a bold statement while maintaining practicality.

Black window frames continue to be a strong trend. They offer a dramatic contrast to lighter exteriors and interiors. This style adds some extra sophistication and works well with many different home color schemes and architectural designs.

Black frames are versatile. That makes them a good choice for both urban and suburban homes.

While black frames are a staple of modern design, colorful window frames are also making waves. Bold hues like deep blue, forest green, or vibrant red can add a unique character to your home’s exterior. This trend is perfect for homeowners looking to make a bold, personalized statement with their window choices.

Just make sure you consider costs before you begin replacing your windows.

Energy-Efficient Windows

As environmental consciousness continues to rise, energy-efficient windows have become a crucial element in modern home design. These windows not only reduce the carbon footprint of a home but also offer significant cost savings by lowering energy bills.

One of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency is through double or triple-glazed windows. These windows have a few different layers of glass with insulating gas between them.

This added insulation not only maintains a comfortable indoor temperature year-round but also lowers energy bills by reducing the need for heating and cooling.

Energy-efficient windows often come with soundproofing benefits, which is particularly advantageous for homes in noisy urban areas. Thicker glass and specialized framing can significantly reduce noise pollution. That creates a more peaceful indoor environment.

This added benefit enhances the comfort and quality of life for homeowners.

Low-E coatings are a must-have for energy-efficient windows. These coatings are meant to reflect any infrared light that could come in.

By blocking harmful UV rays, Low-E coatings also protect your furniture, carpets, and other interior elements from fading. This technology allows you to enjoy natural light without compromising on energy efficiency.

Trending Window Materials

In 2024, several trending window materials stand out for their innovative properties and design versatility.

Reclaimed wood is a top choice for homeowners looking to add a more rustic design touch to their home. This eco-friendly option repurposes wood from old structures.

It reduces waste and environmental impact. Reclaimed wood windows offer unique textures and character that can’t be replicated with new materials. They are perfect for adding warmth to both traditional and contemporary homes.

Composite windows, which are made from a blend of different materials, are gaining popularity. That’s because they offer excellent insulation properties and durability.

These windows have the aesthetic appeal of wood and the low maintenance and weather resistance of vinyl. Composite materials are ideal for homeowners who want energy-efficient windows that can hold up to different weather conditions without sacrificing style.

Vinyl windows remain a popular choice for their affordability, easy maintenance, and energy reduction. Advances in vinyl technology have improved their insulation properties and durability, making them a viable option for modern homes.

These windows are available in lots of different colors and styles, allowing Nevada homeowners to customize their appearance without compromising on performance.

Fiberglass windows are another trending material in 2024 due to their remarkable strength and energy efficiency. Fiberglass is highly resistant to warping, swelling, and rotting, making it a durable choice for various climates.

These windows also have excellent thermal performance, helping to keep your home comfortable year-round. With the ability to be painted in any color, fiberglass windows offer versatility in design while ensuring longevity.

If you’re interested, invest in window installation services today.

Innovative Window Features

There are also new features that are becoming popular with discerning Las Vegas homeowners.

Windows with integrated blinds offer a sleek, clutter-free solution for light control and privacy. These blinds are built into the window frame, protecting them from dust and damage. They can be manually operated or motorized for added convenience, and some models even integrate with smart home systems for automated control based on time of day or ambient light levels.

Windows with customizable tints provide homeowners with the ability to adjust the darkness of their windows as needed. Using electrochromic technology, these windows can be controlled via a smartphone app or home automation system, offering flexibility in managing privacy, light levels, and heat gain.

Modern windows are being designed with integrated ventilation systems that allow for fresh air circulation without compromising security or energy efficiency. These systems can include trickle vents, which provide a steady flow of air, or more sophisticated solutions that automatically adjust based on indoor air quality sensors.

Try These Window Trends Today

With these window trends, you’ll be able to transform your home in no time at all. Sit down with window installation professionals, and see what they recommend for your Nevada home.

Are you ready to start investing in these home window design ideas? Cut Rate Glass has over 14 years of experience helping Las Vegas customers replace their glass with ease.

Contact us today.

Windows typically last between about 15 and 30 years, but various factors can make them last much shorter or longer than this.

Windows are designed to stand up to some wear and tear, but eventually, they’ll start to degrade. In plenty of cases, they’ll experience some unexpected damage that can lead to chips or cracks. Whatever the situation, there will come a time when you need to get rid of the old windows and install new ones.

Replacing window glass isn’t something to rush. It’s a sizable investment, so you want to get things right the first time.

In this guide, we’ll look at some crucial do’s and don’ts that you should know about window glass replacement. Keep reading for more.

Do: Replace Windows Whenever There Is Visible Damage

You may be walking past a window one day and notice a small chip or crack. This damage might only seem superficial, but things can get a lot worse with time.

Such damage can grow into large cracks, and the window may eventually shatter. As such, you should replace windows as soon as you can after noticing damage. This will prevent much larger issues and potential safety hazards down the line.

On top of this, damage can impact the performance of windows. If you have insulated windows, cracks can let air pass through. Any special gas infill may leak out, and the insulating properties of your window will be reduced.

This will cause the efficiency of your entire property to drop. As a result, you’ll be using more energy for heating or cooling, resulting in higher energy bills each month. The longer you leave it, the more you’ll pay, so it’s best to replace a broken window as soon as you can.

Do: Replace the Entire Insulated Glass Unit

When you see some damage to a window, your first thought will probably be to just replace that window. The others are still fine, so it makes sense to go for the cheaper option and replace the one window, right?

It may be more expensive upfront, but replacing the entire insulated glass unit can be the better choice in the long run. Insulated glass units contain a range of components that need to be properly sealed together. This ensures the window unit can perform as it should.

If you replace a single window, the performance of the unit as a whole could be compromised. Because of this, you’ll get better results if you get a new unit when you need a replacement window.

Do: Consider Your Options

Window technology is always improving, so if you need to replace yours, you can take it as an opportunity to upgrade them. This is something you should definitely consider if you’ve had the same windows for a long time.

Energy prices are always on the rise, so the more efficient your windows are, the more money you’ll save in the long run. On top of saving money on your utility bills, better windows will help increase the value of your property.

If you ever decide to sell, you’ll have an easier time getting a good price with quality windows as a selling point. With that in mind, efficiency can affect the window price, so determine your budget before you start looking at different options.

Don’t: Forget About the Property’s Design

Aside from how a window performs and how much it costs, you also want to think about how it’s going to look. As with homes, windows come in a wide range of styles and designs. If you make the wrong choice, you’ll end up with windows that look out of place.

Depending on the style of your home, you might be more limited in terms of suitable design choices. It’s worth considering a range of options and working out what will suit your home best.

If your property is a bit older, you might have a harder time finding suitable windows. This is especially true if you’re after something specific. You can have certain designs custom-made; just bear in mind that this can add to the price.

Don’t: Replace Just a Single Pane

In many cases, when a multi-pane window is damaged, it’s only a single pane that actually has a chip or crack. If you notice this, you might be tempted to try to replace just that pane, as it will cost less. Doing this, however, can be a mistake.

In a sealed glass unit, replacing a single pane will make the window look good again. The performance, however, will take a hit. The result will be reduced energy efficiency, and this will cost you more in the long run.

Don’t: Try to Do It Yourself

This is one of the most important things to remember if you need to replace a window. Again, it’s always ideal to save money, but a window installation isn’t easy. Unless you’re properly trained and fully qualified, this isn’t something you should try to tackle on your own.

If you try to replace your windows yourself, various things can go wrong. It’s unlikely that you’ll fit the window properly, and there won’t be a sufficient seal. This will result in poor energy efficiency.

You might also misalign the windows or even not place them in level. This will make your entire home look odd and poorly designed.

On top of this, there’s always a safety risk. You could hurt yourself or others, and saving a bit of cash isn’t worth the risk.

You should always hire a professional window installation company. They have the expertise and knowledge to install your windows properly. Make sure you go with a company that has suitable insurance just in case there are any issues.

Replacing Window Glass

There are plenty of mistakes you can make when replacing window glass. Make sure you take the time to consider your options and take the right approach.

Cut Rate Glass is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured glass company based in Las Vegas, NV. We have been operating for over 15 years and installing more than 5,000 windows annually. Contact us today to get your free quote.

You might be surprised to learn that the average homeowner spends approximately $6,000 on home renovations each year. One of the most notable attributes people focus on is windows.

While it’s possible to replace them on your own, you’ll get better results by hiring a professional. This goes a long way toward helping you get the best results for your needs.

Before moving forward, understanding the process of window replacement services is essential. This will ensure you know what to expect. Let’s explore the key information you need to know.

Home Walkthrough

The residential window replacement service you choose will walk through your home on the date of the installation. They will explain how the installation process will occur and answer any questions you might have. Before they arrive, you should secure pets and keep children out of the room where the project will take place.

Area Prep and Cleaning

Before the project can begin, your service provider will need to prepare the area. They’ll use drop cloths to protect your floors from debris and dirt.

They’ll also ask you to remove fragile items and window treatments. Even the most experienced professionals can have a difficult time working around these without causing damage.

Afterward, they’ll remove your old windows and inspect the underlying surface. There’s a chance they may need to make repairs before installing a new window.

Rotting wood and decaying frames should be fixed or removed entirely. Otherwise, this could interfere with how your new windows will function. Before continuing, your service provider will then clean the frame’s surface.

Insulating and Sealing

Installation will now take place. The company you hire will measure the frame opening and replacement window to ensure they are a perfect fit.

After they place the frame, they’ll seal and insulate the opening. It’s customary for service providers to replace the window trim, as well. The length of the project will depend on various factors.

For example, different types of windows have different timelines for installation. The same can be said about window sizes.

Window repairs tend to take less time than replacing broken windows. Keep this in mind when moving forward so you aren’t caught off guard.

Finishing up

The professional you work with will handle all aspects of your project’s cleanup. They’ll dispose of your old windows and get rid of leftover debris.

The crew will also fully clean the work area. Reputable companies will leave the area looking like they were never there at all.

Verification

No project is complete without verification. The crew’s leader will perform a final inspection after your windows are installed. This is also when you’ll learn how your new windows function and how to clean them properly.

If the crew leader finds evidence the job wasn’t handled correctly, they’ll work with you to develop a solution. For instance, some companies will fix the problems for free, while others will refund your money. If no issues are present, they’ll answer questions you may have before leaving you to enjoy your home’s new appearance.

Finding a Professional

Not all professionals are created equal, and it’s essential to thoroughly research your prospective choices. Look into their past reputation online to see what other people have to say. This will provide valuable insight into what you can expect from them.

Pay close attention to how they respond to criticism, though. You should avoid companies that get defensive or aggressive toward negative feedback.

Look for fake reviews during your search, as well. These are often easy to recognize since they tend to be posted in large batches. What is their pricing structure like?

They should be fully transparent about what you pay so you can avoid financial surprises. You should also avoid the cheapest options you find.

However, there’s a point of diminishing returns regarding what you budget for. You don’t always have to spend as much money as possible to get the outcome you desire.

Somewhere in the middle of the price range can help you meet your needs without stretching your budget. They should also be communicative and easy to get in touch with.

The last thing you want is to deal with problems on your own. Their level of experience also plays a role in the results you’ll get.

It’s best to find someone who’s been around for at least a decade. With enough due diligence, you shouldn’t have an issue finding the best choice for your situation.

When Should I Replace My Windows?

As you might assume, you should consider a window replacement if your windows are cracked or broken. However, it’s also important to realize that most windows have a lifespan of between 15 and 20 years. After they reach this age, the seal will start to weaken.

In some cases, it can even fail. This puts your home at risk of water seepage drafts. You should also consider replacing your windows if they start to feel outdated.

When people renovate their homes, they tend to focus on areas like kitchens and bathrooms. As time passes, it’s not uncommon for people to have homes with modern hardware, furniture, etc., that still have outdated windows.

This can detract from your home’s overall aesthetic. People looking to add value to their property should also consider window replacement.

Not only will the new windows increase what your home is worth, but they’ll also be an enticing attribute to attract new buyers. This can make it much easier to sell your home in a competitive market.

Understanding the Process of Window Replacement Services Is Crucial

By understanding the process of window replacement services, you can help ensure you make the best decision for your needs. The information in this guide will allow you to get started as soon as possible and avoid issues you may have otherwise encountered. Just be sure to choose the right professional.

Cut Rate Glass prides itself on offering fast repair service at the lowest price in the Las Vegas Valley. We strive to exceed all client expectations and deliver outstanding results for each project. You’ll learn more about how we can help when you get in touch with us today.

When you first install your windows, you aren’t thinking about one shattering. You’re envisioning the light and visibility they add to your space!

However, the reality is that even if we’re ultra-careful, accidents can happen. From stray baseballs to extreme weather events, many culprits can shatter that glass. If this happens, your first instinct might be to tackle the repair job yourself.

However, doing so is not only dangerous but could wind up harming the window even more. Today, we’re sharing seven reasons why you should always trust a shattered window to a professional, and how our team can help!

1. Safer for You

First and most importantly, allowing an expert to take the reins is safer for you and your loved ones. Not only will a professional window installation and repair team know exactly how to fix the issue, but they’ll also be experienced in working with all types of windows.

They know the specific method required to correct the issue. If they cannot repair it, they can recommend and install a window replacement to restore the space.

Even if you wear protective gloves and eyewear, handling broken glass is extremely dangerous. Even if you manage to handle each piece carefully, there’s a chance it could slip from your grasp and damage another part of your body.

In addition to bodily harm, a shattered window also poses another type of risk: unwanted entry. From curious critters to unscrupulous burglars, anyone could spot the new opening and see their chance to check out what’s inside. This is especially the case in colder seasons when animals are looking for opportunities to get out of the cold.

2. Proper Technique

Left to your own devices, would you know how to correctly and safely repair your window? If your first thought is to secure everything in place with duct tape, you definitely need a window repair crew on speed dial!

These professionals have years of training and know how to fix this exact issue. They’ll work to mitigate the damage and repair your glass with ease, using techniques that follow industry standards for safety and quality. This includes thoroughly cleaning up the scene.

If you attempt to tidy up on your own, there’s a chance you could miss a tiny shard of glass on the floor. This poses a cut risk for you, your family members, and any four-legged friends that live in your home.

3. Correct Tools

Even if you know how to repair your window, you might not have the right tools and accessories on hand. Most glass repairs require specialty items that most homeowners don’t have regular access to.

While you may be able to find and purchase the necessary parts online, they can be very expensive. In addition, they require extensive training to use safely, and you should never handle them if you’ve never worked with them before.

You don’t need to spend a ton of money on items that you’ll (hopefully) only use once or twice. It typically costs less to simply call a pro and let them do the job right the first time.

4. Quick Work

When you have a shattered window, time is of the essence. With an exposed opening in your home, your interior becomes instantly vulnerable. Beyond the aforementioned trespassers, you also risk rain, sleet, or even heavy wind making its way inside.

Trying to repair it on your own can be complicated and time-consuming. By the time you buy the tools and learn how to use them, days or weeks might have gone by. On the other hand, a professional will work quickly and efficiently, lessening the duration of time your property sits open.

These teams usually keep many different window options in stock, so they can ensure quick response times. They’ll repair or replace the window as fast as possible, protecting your home and the people within it.

5. No Further Damage

From a full shatter to a hairline crack, there are many different ways your windows can break. If you try to correct that damage yourself, there’s a strong chance you’ll exacerbate the issue. In fact, your “repair” work could wind up shattering the glass even more.

Ultimately, this means playing a long game of working, purchasing, attempting, and revising. With each trip to the hardware store (or online checkout), you’ll spend more money. Meanwhile, the glass is still broken, and your home is still unprotected.

Save yourself the time (and headache) and call an expert at the first sign of a damaged or compromised window.

6. Comply With Warranty

Are the windows in your home still under warranty? If so, then attempting a DIY repair job could void the terms of that contract. Even if you’re planning to call an expert, it’s important to review the terms and conditions of your warranty before moving forward.

The same goes for any insurance coverage you may have on your windows. If repairs or replacements are included in your policy, you may be required to hire a professional team to ensure continued coverage.

7. Experience With Complex Systems

Some modern window systems, including double-glazed, dual-pane, and energy-efficient models, feature complicated mechanisms that make them a little challenging to repair. Fixing them may require niche expertise and specially designed tools that only professionals can use.

If you have any of these windows in your home, it’s important to partner with an experienced team that knows how to handle and restore them safely.

Do You Have a Shattered Window?

Noticing a shattered window in your home can be extremely disheartening. After all, windows are a major investment, and you hope they’ll last forever when you first put them in.

Thankfully, when you have a qualified glass expert by your side, you can rest assured that the problem won’t last for long. At Cut Rate Glass, our team is experienced in every aspect of residential window installation and repair. We follow the latest industry standards and techniques to make sure Las Vegas homeowners are satisfied.

Dealing with a broken window? Looking for a replacement or a new install? Contact us today to request a free quote!