How to Replace Glass in a Home Window

*Updated September 29th, 2025

If your home window glass has shattered, it can be more than just an eyesore. It’s important to replace window glass quickly with the right replacement glass to avoid further damage. In addition, when your home has a broken window the following are compromised:

• Safety: A broken window pane can pose a hazard, especially if it’s located in a high traffic area or accessible to children or pets. Broken glass runs the risk of injuring anyone who may accidentally come in contact with it.

• Security: With a broken window, burglars have an easier time gaining entry into your home.

• Energy efficiency: A cracked or broken window pane reduces energy efficiency. Air escapes through gaps around the sash or pane, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature and raising energy bills.

• Aesthetics: A pane window in poor shape can detract from your home’s curb appeal both inside and out.

Sometimes, the need for glass replacement won’t be as obvious. Cracks, chips, or old foggy double pane units can also signal that it’s time to upgrade to replacement windows.

How to Replace Broken Glass in a Home Window

Step-by-Step Process

To tackle replacing the window glass, here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

1. Prepare the tools and materials: You’ll need leather gloves, a screwdriver, a putty knife, cutting tools, caulk, and the new glass pane.

2. Remove the broken glass: Wear gloves to protect your hands from shards. Carefully remove the broken glass from the window sash using a putty knife.

3. Remove the old glazing: Use a heat gun to soften and scrape away the old glazing compound or caulk from around the perimeter of the frame.

4. Measure and cut the replacement glass: Take exact measurements of the opening. A local glass shop can cut a piece of glass to the correct size, whether it’s standard or tempered glass.

5. Apply new glazing: Spread a thin layer of new glazing compound or caulk around the edge of the frame to hold it in place.

6. Install the new glass: Place the glass in place, pressing it firmly against the glazing strip or setting blocks so it stays square within the vinyl frame or wood frame.

7. Finish and secure: Add glazing points or a bead of putty around the perimeter of the glass. Smooth with a putty knife.

8. Clean up: Once dry, trim excess putty, sand if needed, and clean the window pane.

For added guidance, the doityourself.com community forums are a great resource for DIY projects like this.

Professional Replacement vs. DIY

While many homeowners can handle glass repair themselves, insulated glass units (IGUs), skylights and windows, or larger vinyl windows may be best left to a glass manufacturer or pro installer. Attempting to remove the glazing or glass without removing the entire frame can be tricky, and mishandling can damage the weather seal, small rubber spacers, or even the entire window.

Hiring a professional ensures:

• Correct handling of insulating glass or glass in a wood sash

• Use of the right glazing compound and materials

• Warranty protection if the glass broke againBudgeting Factors

• Single Pane: $150–$400 per new pane.

• Double Pane: $150–$600, depending on glass unit size and type.

• Triple Pane: $400–$1000 for superior insulating performance.

• Low-E Glass: Energy-efficient upgrades for modern home improvement.

• Gas-Filled IGUs: $375–$850 for insulating glass filled with argon.

• Labor Costs: Higher for specialty shapes like casement, bay, or bow replacement windows.

Replacement vs. Repair

Repairing a window pane might work if:

• Damage is small

• The old glass is historic or valuable

• The sash and frame are in good shape

But if the glass unit is cracked, fogged, or the old glazing has failed, a full glass replacement or even removing the sash and installing new windows is often the better option.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a broken window pane can be a rewarding DIY project with the right tools and patience. But when it comes to insulated glass units, glass in vinyl windows, or more complex repairs, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Whether you handle the glass cut yourself or trust glass shops to handle it, your home will benefit from strong, secure, and energy-efficient window glass.

If you’re not sure whether to repair or replace, consult a local pro—they’ll help you decide whether to swap out the glass without removing the entire frame or go for a full upgrade.

To find a Local Windows Pro who can help you, click here! 

Additional Windows Resources:

• Bring Your Home to Life with Window Treatments
• 6 Tips and Tricks for Cleaning Windows
• Window Styling Tips By Window Type
• Window Treatments: How to Choose the Right One
• The Homeowner’s In-Depth Guide to Double-Pane Windows