Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right 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 performance.
However, it isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing needs professional repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be addressed:
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system. They secure, insulate and seal windows against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they may need repair or replacement at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.
One of the most frequent signs that your window seals aren't working is fogging in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU and create condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by a professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, such as xenon or argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat in the house. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to deteriorate due to aging and exposure. The process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. If not addressed, double glazing window repairs may cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from falling apart. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows as it can be able to penetrate the sash, and damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your insulated window, because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Also, 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 an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and possibly even water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that has been broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety however, it can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a windowpane is cracked is to tape it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This method is especially important for windows that are higher up.
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 a new window.
It is important to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be made specifically to fit 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 the new glass, place it with care into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too large can swell and cloud the wood around it, while one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's even around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing system are crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. He or she also checks the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are properly installed and aren't leaky.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. The root causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors, and inadequate installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and suggests repair measures if needed.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash elements.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the savings in energy consumption as well as the increased comfort of residents could allow the initial investment to be recouped. Additionally, a replacement system could help bring the existing structure into conformance with more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and fix a variety of problems with sash windows. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can be picked up by a professional window assessment and ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and don't need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and could also impact your home's energy efficiency. It's also a risk when windows suddenly snap shut and can lead to injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and shut. If the problem continues it could be because the balances aren't functioning properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood and by applying an sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and shut windows in sash. A carpenter can fix these issues by taking off the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It's important to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing wood decay.