Glazing Repairs
Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they may need repair or replacement at some time. The good news is there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
One of the most frequent signs that your window seals aren't working is fogging in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, for instance using a steamer or window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keep heat inside the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time because of exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by insufficient maintenance or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope, resulting in mildew and mold. This can eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and weakening insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could get into the sash and damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard 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 pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a risk for safety, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause further damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
If a window pane breaks the first step is to board it up with a cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
It is important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be custom cut for your frame. To avoid a mistake make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, be sure to place it into the frame. Make sure it is in a straight line with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too large can swell and cloud the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small can fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
Once you've made sure the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. After drying paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see whether they have corroded, degraded, or misaligned. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues are risky and can lead to serious destruction over time. It is essential to address any structural problems as soon as possible so that you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads, and other strains. When these components fail the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and poor installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the work area is free of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. double glazing repairs , hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include loose or missing hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is usually recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window manufacturers.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort for occupants may allow the initial investment to be paid back. Additionally, a replacement system can assist in bringing the current structure into compliance to more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of problems with sash windows. A professional assessment of the window can identify things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise can be easily fixed and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and also affect your home's energy efficiency. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can cause injuries, property damage, and even a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can help them to open and close more easily. If the problem continues 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 are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. This causes them swell and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood and by regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these problems by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to keep their condition to avoid water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that may arise 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.