Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right can boost your home's value. It also ensures that your door or window is operating as well as possible, improving its overall performance.
It isn't easy to tell whether the problem you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems that require repair:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time however, they could require repair or replacement at some time. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals are failing is the presence of fog in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU and create condensation. While you can try a few quick-fixes to defog your windows, like using a steamer or window putty, the most effective solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. When the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if it is not addressed. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows since it can cause damage to the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window with insulation as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers because they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window can fall and cause further windows to break or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can also be dangerous to anyone who comes in contact with it, including pets or children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.
The first step to take when a window is cracked is to tape it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points out of the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is important to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to need to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, carefully put it in the frame. Make sure that it's flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small can be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts enter.
Once the new pane has been secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is essential to the safety and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines anchor points, fasteners and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaking.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These problems can be very hazardous and could result in severe damage over the course of time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to be able to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. The water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are often caused by inadequate construction, design errors or poor installation.
Another common problem is warping, which can result in deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
The first step in an inspection of the glazing is to make sure that the work area is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety equipment. It's also an excellent idea to wear the ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for windows made of wood include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of people living in the structure could let the initial investment be returned. A new system could assist in bringing an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed through a visual examination. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be detected with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good order to be used in the future. The most common problems can be easily fixed and do not require replacement.
double glazing repairs like a sash window that doesn't close or open can be a source of frustration and also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and working well. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more quickly. If the problem continues it could mean that the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to avoid water ingress, rot and other problems that can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.