Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems that require fixing:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will need to be replaced at some moment. The good news is there are several options for repair depending on your budget and timeline.
Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU and cause condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
double glazing repairs failing seal can also cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon which help the IGU to resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.
The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass, since it could invalidate the warranty and damage the sealant material. Finally, be careful when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window can fall and break other windows or cause drafts and even insects or water to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that has been broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a safety risk, but it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as other surfaces.
If a window is cracked the first step is to tape it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's essential to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready to install the new glass, place it with care into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A new glass pane that's too big could cause clouding and swelling of the surrounding wood, while one that's too small may fall from the frame or allow drafts into your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing system are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they are corroded degraded or misaligned. The inspector will also check the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to ensure they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious damage over time. It is important that you fix any structural issues as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to be able to withstand wind loads and other stresses. If these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. The main causes for the failures are poor construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which could affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and suggests repair steps if required.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. It's also recommended to use a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in wooden window panes can often be repaired with two-part epoxy, however rotted or severely damaged wood is typically best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and increased quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a new system can help bring the current structure into compliance with more strict building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved through an examination. A professional window inspection can detect things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for future use. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash window that doesn't close or open can be a source of frustration and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and close. However, if the problem persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time, and are affected when humidity levels change. They then expand and shrink, which could result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and by regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems that could occur are a damaged the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that may occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is an additional way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.