Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against moisture and air outside. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the reality is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. The good news is that there are several options for repair depending on your budget and timeline.
Fogging in your double paned IGU is one of the most common indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost when the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to degrade due to age and exposure. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water infiltration into the building envelope, resulting in mildew and mold. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best way to avoid window seals falling apart. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows since 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 damage the sealant material. Also, be cautious when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. double glazing repairs near me broken pane in a window can fall and cause other 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 dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes children and pets. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, sash, and other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is especially important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass is removed, clean the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid any mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you are ready to put in your new glass, be sure to put it in the frame. Check that it fits perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small may be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
After the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural problems that need to be addressed. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues promptly to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to resist winds and other strains. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. The underlying causes of these failures include poor construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Another issue that is common is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
The first step in an inspection of the glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing appropriate safety gear. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It is also recommended to use a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to tackle more complex issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be paid back. A replacement system can also help bring an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed by a visual examination. A professional window assessment can detect things like wood that is rotting, paintwork damage and broken glass, assuring that the window is in good order to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise can be easily fixed and don't require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and affect the efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage, and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and working well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more quickly. However, if the problem persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make sash windows harder to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged components, and then reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is a different option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.