What's actually causing this
Window panes break from impact, stress fractures from temperature cycling, or settling of the window frame. Single-pane windows in older homes are the most common repair candidate.
What you'll need
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- Work gloves (cut-resistant) Shop →
- Safety glasses Shop →
- Putty knife Shop →
- Glazing compound Shop →
- Glazing points Shop →
Step-by-step fix
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1
Remove the broken glass
Wearing thick gloves, remove the largest pieces first. Score remaining shards with a glass cutter and snap them out. Dispose in a puncture-proof container.
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2
Remove old glazing compound
Use a heat gun or hair dryer to soften old glazing putty, then scrape it away with a putty knife. Remove all glazing points with pliers.
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3
Measure and order new glass
Measure the opening and subtract 1/8 inch from each dimension to allow for expansion. Take these measurements to a hardware store for cutting.
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4
Bed and set the new glass
Apply a thin layer of glazing compound in the channel as a bed. Set the glass and press it firmly. Insert glazing points every 6 inches to hold the glass in place.
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5
Apply glazing and paint
Roll glazing compound into a rope and press it against the glass at a 45-degree angle using a putty knife. Smooth it flush. Let dry 7 days before painting.
Door and window contractors in Seattle typically charge $95–160/hr. Window replacement averages $300–800 per window, while entry doors run $800–2,500 installed.
Permits and inspections requirements vary by Seattle. Check with your local building department before starting.
Stucco, cedar siding, and vinyl are common. Cedar requires regular staining/sealing due to moisture. Asphalt shingle roofs need moss treatment due to dampness. Gutters require frequent cleaning.
Standard door and window maintenance applies in Seattle's climate.
DIY in Seattle: Seattle's moderate licensing and environmental focus create a fairly DIY-friendly environment for homeowners. Many people handle minor plumbing and electrical work. Moisture management, mold prevention, and basement waterproofing are common DIY focuses.
- The window is double-pane (foggy between panes means the seal is gone).
- The glass is tempered, laminated, or has embedded wires.
- The window frame is rotted — the glass replacement won't hold.
- The window is larger than 3 square feet — large glass is difficult to transport and install safely.
Let Uncle AI diagnose it first.
Describe the problem. Uncle AI asks the right questions and tells you exactly what's broken — and whether you should fix it yourself or call someone in Seattle.
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