Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It also ensures that your window or door is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.
It isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are an important part of your glazing system. They secure, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time however, they might require repair or replacement at some moment. There are many options for repairs in accordance with your budget and timeframe.
One of the most obvious indicators that the window seals in your home are failing is the presence of fog in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through and cause condensation. While you can try a few quick fixes to clear your windows, like using a steamer, or applying window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced by an expert.
A leaky seal can cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon, which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keeps the heat inside the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, because it could work its way into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Finally, be careful 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 a common issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane in a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can also be dangerous to anyone who comes into contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to tape it up using the 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 is especially important for upper-story window.
Next, take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid making mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you are ready to put in your new glass, carefully place it in the frame. Check that it fits perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small may fall out of the frame, or allow drafts enter.
After the new pane is secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure that it is even around the new pane. Once the compound is dry, paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is crucial to the safety, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be hazardous and could result in serious damage over time. It is essential to address any structural problems as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other stresses. When double glazing window repairs fail the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. The underlying causes of these failures include poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repairs if needed.
Glazing inspections should begin by ensuring that the work area is free of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also an excellent idea to wear a harness and ladder to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is typically better replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of people living in the structure could make it possible for the initial investment to be recouped. A replacement system may assist in bringing an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting timber, damage to paintwork and broken glass are all picked up with a professional assessment of the window, ensuring the window is in good condition for future use. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This can cause injuries, property damage, and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and close. However, if the issue persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and are affected by changing levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to prevent it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.