Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your window system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they could require repair or replacement at some point. The good news is that there are several options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeframe.
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 result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture get in, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced 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 your two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep warm within the house. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will rise.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and aging. Degradation can be accelerated due to poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create drafts, or allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken 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 is cracked, the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is of the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes on hand however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit the frame. To avoid making mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small may be thrown out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once the new pane has been secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. After drying, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to make sure they are installed correctly and are not leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be extremely risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is crucial to address any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand winds, and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. The underlying causes of the failures are poor construction, design flaws and inadequate installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and safety. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if required.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. double glazing repairs near me can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones who handle more complicated issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the improved comfort for the residents could allow the initial investment to be recouped. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can all be identified through a professional window inspection and ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a hassle and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also dangerous if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage, and loss of cool or warm air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more easily. If the problem persists, it could indicate that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and can be affected by changes in levels of humidity. This causes them to swell and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming that can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which could 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 surrounding timber and causing wood decay.