Answers

Hi Glenn,

If they are cloudy between the panes it is almost always and indication of "Seal Failure". If the windows are still covered under a 10 year warranty you should first contact the window manufacturer. They may provide a service provider to install the glass as well as providing the glass itself. You may want to hire a pro to do this job. If you are in the Kansas City area, we do this work on most brands of windows.

If you plan to do this yourself you'll want to invest in a suction cup from a glazing supplier, or rent one from a tool rental or local glass supplier. This will make lifting those big glass units a lot easier.

Depending on what type of window that you have, there may be a trim piece that is removable around the glass and attached to the frame. If so, you'll need to carefully remove it to replace the glass. I say carefully because you may want to re use it, or if it is wood you might just want to replace it. Thes stops may be either on the interior side or the exterior of the unit.  Once this is off, you'll need to cut around the silicone adhesive or tape that is holding the glass in. Run a knife or a flat blade between the glass and the frame to seperate it. Some units may have a flexible boot that goes around the perimeter that will be removed and reused. Once the glass is out, scrape out any remaining sealant or tape and apply setting blocks on bottom and sides of the frame. Apply a bead of sealant to the perimeter of the frame where the glass is going and install the new glass units. Install the stops back around the glass. Once it cures, you can water test for leaks.  

Hope this helps.  

Doug Bennett / President,  All-Weather Windows Doors and Siding , Inc.

Glenn-

I agree with my colleagues that you should hire a professional to do this.  Contact the manufacturer and see if they will install the glass, what the cost is, and how long the installation warranty is.  If they won't or it's too expensive, find a local professional with a home improvement license.

You say it's a vertical wall but it's on a roof?  If it's a window in a vertical wall find a window installer; if it's on the roof with flashing and shingles surrounding it find a roofer.

It may look easy, but trust me it's more complicated than it looks.  Installing it may be simple but ensuring it doesn't leak for the next 20 years takes some experience.

If you're a DIY guy, find someone who will let you help but will oversee the job and WARRANTY the installation.

Good luck

Joe

Is this a skylight or window application?  Do you have any photos to share?

I agree with Doug, unless you are experienced in glass replacement, let a professional do it.  Definitely check with the manufacturer to see about the warranty unless you are passed your 10 year mark.  Doug explained the process well.

Wear gloves and protective eyewear.  The edge of glass is razor sharp and for possible glass shards, you want your eyes protected.  Also, never carry glass over your head.  I know this seems obvious, but the things I have seen..  It's just a reminder.

Additionally, if they are aluminum frames and are getting a lot of sun/heat, they will most likely fail and cloud up again.  Replace them completely with something that doesnt absorb heat like vinyl or fiberglass and maybe have Doug's guys come out and give you an estimate.  Sounds fair enough.

Good luck!

Rico Loza

Affordable Replacement Window Systems