Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most common problems that require fixing:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure the windows, insulate them and seal against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some moment. There are many options to repair them, based on your budget.
One of the most obvious signs that your window seals are failing is fogging in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture get in, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it is best to get your window seals repaired by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal could cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon that helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and keep heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time because of exposure and age. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not taken care of. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can cause damage to the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially children or pets. In addition to being a risk for safety, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your house until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points out of the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes on hand, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it in the frame with care and ensure it's a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could fall out of the frame or allow drafts in.
After the new pane is secured, you can roll another 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. Once dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners, and supports to see if they are corroded, damaged or misaligned. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be hazardous and could result in severe damage over the course of time. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs actions if necessary.
The first step of an inspection of the glazing is to ensure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that employees are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. It's also recommended to use the ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sashes that stick can be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are usually left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the improved comfort for the residents could allow the initial investment to be recouped. In addition, a new system can assist in bringing the existing structure into conformance with more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many problems with sash windows. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass are all identified with a professional assessment of the window, ensuring the window is in good condition for its future use. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. double glazing window repairs can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This could result in injuries, property damage, and the loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the issue persists it could mean that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues include a damaged lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and close sash windows. These can often be fixed by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged components, and then re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to prevent water ingress, rot and other problems that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.