Glazing Repairs
Correctly repairing your glass will increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your window or door is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that must be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last for a long time and may require repair or replacement, the fact is that they will need to be replaced at some moment. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
One of the most common 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 are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you get your window seals repaired by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon, which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat within the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
As time passes, rubber gaskets will begin to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. The degrading process is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if it is not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the 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, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers as they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window can fall and cause further windows to break, or create a draft, or even allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can be a danger for anyone who comes in contact with it, especially pets or children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
If a window pane breaks the first step is to seal it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points out of the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
After determining the window's opening, it's important to make sure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the glass, put it in the frame with care and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets that hold it. A new glass pane that's too large could cause clouding and swelling of the surrounding wood, while one that's too small could be thrown off the frame or allow drafts into your home.
Once you've made sure the new pane is securely secured to the frame, wrap another cord of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, damaged or misaligned. They also check the gaskets and sealants, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be extremely dangerous and may lead to severe damage in the future. It is essential to address any structural problems promptly in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. If these components fail, the water intrusion that results could be destructive and costly. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and improper installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs steps if required.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but rotted or severely damaged wood is typically better replaced. Sticking double glazing repairs near me can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones who handle more complicated issues like replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the increased comfort of occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be returned. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window problems can be identified and resolved by a visual inspection. Things like rotting timber, damage to paintwork and broken glass can be identified by a professional window assessment and ensure that the window is in good order for its future use. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a hassle and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be risky if they suddenly snap closed. This can cause injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking good and operating properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying it with lubricant could make it easier to open and shut. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and are affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which can result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems include a damaged lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can resolve these issues by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained to restore their appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good condition to avoid water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.