Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be difficult to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system. They are used to secure the windows, insulate them and seal against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will have to be replaced at some point. There are several options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeline.
Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is one of the most commonly reported indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture be absorbed, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you have your window seals fixed by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas like argon or xenon, which helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and retain heat within the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. Degradation can be accelerated through improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not dealt with. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method to stop window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it can cause damage to the seal. Do not apply reflective films to your window with insulation as this could void the guarantee 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.
double glazing repairs
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and break further windows or cause drafts and possibly even water or insects to get into your home. A broken glass pane can be a danger for anyone who comes in contact with it, especially pets or children. Shattered glass is not only an hazard to safety, but it can be a challenge to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first thing to do when a windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace your glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After measuring the window opening, it's important to ensure the new 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 have to be custom cut for your frame. To avoid a mistake take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and check for an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A new glass pane that's too large could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small may fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.
After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger to ensure it is even around the new pane. After the compound has dried, paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will check fasteners, anchors and supports to determine if they are corroded, degraded, or misaligned. He or she also checks the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural problems that need to be addressed. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to severe damage over the course of time. It is important to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to be able to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that results can be costly and damaging. These failures are often caused by inadequate construction, design errors and poor installation.
Another common problem is warping, which could cause deformed or distorted glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and safety. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if needed.
The first step of an inspection of the glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. It is also recommended to use a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotten wood should be replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite oil. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and improved occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. In addition, a new system can assist in bringing the current structure into compliance with more strict building codes for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many issues with sash windows. A professional window inspection will reveal issues like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for its future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and don't require replacement.
Problems such as the sash not closing or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage or 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 applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. If the problem persists it could be because the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and can be affected by changes in levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which may result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood and by regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming that can make windows more difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good condition to prevent water ingress and rot as well as other problems that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.