Pane Window Glass — How To Replace A Double

The glass is held in place by "stops" or "beads" (strips of vinyl or wood) on the interior or exterior side of the sash.

Home again, she set the new IGU into the frame without sealant first. It slid in perfectly. She then inserted the plastic shims (bought for $3) at the bottom corners to lift the glass evenly. This prevents pressure points that cause future cracks. how to replace a double pane window glass

Back home, she examined the window. On the interior side, she found thin vinyl or aluminum strips holding the glass in place—the glazing beads. She slid a stiff putty knife into the seam and gently pried. Snap! The first bead broke. She learned the hard way: start at the middle of the longest side, not the corner. The second bead came off cleanly. She labeled each piece (Top, Bottom, Left, Right) with masking tape. The glass is held in place by "stops"