Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is operating as efficiently as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems that require fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that secure, insulate, and seal windows from outside 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 point. The good news is there are many options for repairs depending on your budget and timeframe.
One of the most frequent indications that the window seals in your home are failing is the presence of fog in your double pane 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 seep in, creating condensation. Steamers are a great option to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you have your window seals fixed by an experienced professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will increase.
As time passes, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to aging and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash on your IGU, destroying the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from being damaged. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can damage the seal. Do not apply a reflective film to your insulated window, since this could invalidate the warranty and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window may fall and break further windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard, 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 seal it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
After measuring the window opening, it's essential to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert but if you're looking to get security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be made specifically for the frame. To avoid committing mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it with care into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small may be thrown out of the frame or let drafts get in.
Once the new pane has been secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is crucial to the safety and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are properly installed and aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural problems that need to be addressed. These issues are risky and can lead to serious damage with time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to resist winds and other strains. When these components fail, the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and safety. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Wearing double glazing repairs , hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It's also an excellent idea to wear the ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A small crack in wooden window panes can often be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is usually best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more complicated issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and improved quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring 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 identified and dealt with by an inspection. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass are all detected with a professional assessment of the window, ensuring the window is in good condition for future use. The most common problems can be fixed easily and do not require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open could be frustrating and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows could 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 in good condition and working well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying lubricant on it can make them easier to open and close. If the issue 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 absorb water over time, and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other issues with sash windows include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different way to stop it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.