Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be a challenge to determine 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 element of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time but the reality is they might require repair or replacement at some point. There are a variety of options for repair depending on your budget and timeframe.
One of the most obvious indications that the window seals in your home are failing is fogging in the double pane of your IGU. (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. Although you can try some quick fixes to clear your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to repair your window seals by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon, which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. The degrading process is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it can 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 chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane in a window can fall and cause further windows to break or cause drafts, or let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can be a danger to anyone who comes in contact with it, including pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk, but it can also be difficult to get rid of and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as other surfaces.
If a window pane breaks the first step is to tape it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, cut-resistant 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, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
After measuring the window's opening, it is important to ensure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid a mistake take a measurement of the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in your glass, take care to place it in the frame. Make sure that it's flush with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too large could cause clouding and swelling of the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small may fall off the frame and let drafts enter your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger to ensure it's even around the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see if they are corroded, deteriorated or misaligned. They also inspect the gaskets and sealants to make sure they have been installed correctly and are not leaking.
double glazing repair that need to be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe damage over time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. If these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. The underlying causes of the failures are inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which may impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs actions if necessary.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the work area is clear of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate 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.
Common repairs for wooden windows include loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.
Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and enhanced occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A new system could help bring an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many issues with sash windows. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good condition for its future use. Fortunately, the most common issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a source of frustration and also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also risky when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and are affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which may cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood and applying regularly a sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is important to maintain their condition to prevent water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to prevent it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.