Replacing Glass in a Metal Storm Window

Screen and Storm Window Repairs

Metal storm and screen windows are frequent troublemakers, partly because they are often of poor quality and may have been hastily installed. You can sometimes -- but not always -- purchase replacement parts; manufacturers are often regional and may be out of business. For a tighter seal consider installing better-quality storms.

Prestart Checklist

Time
1 or 2 hours to make most repairs

Tools
Hammer, tape measure, putty knife, spline roller

Skills
General carpentry skills

Prep
Remove and inspect storm sashes. Contact manufacturers for parts as needed.

Materials
Screening and glass as needed, exterior wood glue or polyurethane glue, dowels, finish nails

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Fragile parts

Storm windows have a number of small plastic and metal parts that are easily broken. In addition to corner keys, you may need to replace sliding locks, sash hangers, and pull tabs. The weatherstripping often compresses or comes out; use a spline roller to replace it with new weatherstripping. If the sash is bent and you need to make a new one, see Making a New Metal Screen Sash.

Making a New Metal Screen Sash

Replacing glass in a metal storm window: Step 1

If the broken pane has large pieces that will not pull out easily, disassemble the frame in order to remove the glass. Unscrew the retaining screws and remove at least one piece of framing.

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Replacing glass in a metal storm window: Step 2

Order a new pane the same size and thickness as the old. Unless the rubber gasket is in great shape, buy new gasket material as well. Slip the gasket onto the edges of the pane. At the corners, make a cut in the gasket so it wraps the glass without stretching or bulging.

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Replacing glass in a metal storm window: Step 3

Slip the pane and gasket into the frame's groove; make sure it seats firmly at all points. Push on the frame piece that you removed, check that all the corners are tight, and drive the retaining screws.

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