Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can boost the value of your home. It also ensures that your window or door is operating as well as it can, enhancing its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems that must be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an important component of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time, but the reality is they could require repair or replacement at some time. The good news is that there are a variety of options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeframe.
One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals are failing is fogging in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, for instance using a steamer or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to get your window seals replaced by an expert.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keep heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Over time rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, you should avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could be able to penetrate the sash and damage the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your window that is insulated, since this could invalidate the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers as they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window can fall and cause further windows to break or cause a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety but can also be difficult to get rid of and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a window is cracked is to tape it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your house until you can replace your glass. double glazing repair is particularly crucial for upper-story windows.
Take precautions by putting on thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. Once the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window.
It's important to measure the window's opening and make sure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be made specifically for your frame. To avoid 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 to install the glass, put it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts get in.
Once you've made sure the new pane is secure to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. When 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. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are installed correctly and that they aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is essential to address any structural problems as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. The water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. The root causes of the failures are poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repairs 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 appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also a good idea to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on windows made of wood, however damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before 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 usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure into compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved through a visual inspection. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can be detected by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good order for its future use. Fortunately, the most common issues are less severe and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and impact the efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and operating properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and close. However, if the problem persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and can be affected by changing levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or encased within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an encapsulated seal around the wood and by applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems that could arise include a faulty sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can fix these issues by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows may be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.