Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly can boost your home's value. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing needs professional repair. Here are some of most common problems that need to be addressed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They are used to secure, insulate and seal windows against outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they could require repair or replacement at some time. The good news is there are a variety of options for repair according to your budget and timeline.
Fogging inside your double paned insulated glass unit is among the most commonly reported signs that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows could be the result of an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows water to get in, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas like argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The process can be accelerated by insufficient treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mold and mildew if not dealt with. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and weakening insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash, and damage the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common problem that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or cause a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A broken pane of glass can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes children and pets. In addition to being a safety hazard, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
If a window is cracked the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points out of the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After measuring the window opening, it's essential to make sure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid making mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it with care into the frame and check for an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small may be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers' around the edges of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it's level with the new pane. After drying, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is vital to the security and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, degraded, or misaligned. He or she will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe damage with time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as quickly as possible to avoid costly repairs later on.
double glazing repair require extensive structural support to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and destructive. The main causes for these failures include poor construction, design flaws and inadequate installation.
Another common problem is warping, which can result in deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repairs if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure the area of work is free of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. It is also recommended to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is generally better replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for residents could allow the initial investment to be paid back. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure into line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with through a visual examination. A professional window assessment 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 order for its future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a hassle and also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking good and working well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying lubricant on it can make it easier to open and close. If the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected by changes in humidity. They then expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood and by applying a sash paint or sealer to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and shut windows for sash. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to guard against water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.