Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.
It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component 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 may need repair or replacement at some time. The good news is that there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
One of the most common indicators that the window seals in your home are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Although you can try some quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer or window putty, the most effective solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
Over time rubber gaskets begin to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not addressed. This can eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.
The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it could damage the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window with insulation as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and break further windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially children or pets. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to tape it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is particularly important for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It is important to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is of the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the new glass, place it with care into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts in.
After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. When dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing system are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they are installed correctly and are not leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. double glazing repair can be very hazardous and could result in severe damage in the future. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as quickly as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other strains. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or poor installation.
Another common problem is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety equipment. It is also recommended to use the ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be fixed using two-part epoxy, however rotted or severely damaged wood is typically better replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite lubricant. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the savings in energy consumption as well as the increased comfort for people living in the structure could allow the initial investment to be returned. Additionally, a replacement system can help bring the structure in line with more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many sash window problems. A professional window inspection can detect things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good order for its future use. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and do not need replacement.
Problems such as the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and impact the energy efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage, and loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and close. If the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changing levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which may cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems include a broken lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and shut windows in sash. A carpenter can fix these issues by taking off the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. It is important to maintain their condition to avoid water ingress and rot as well as other problems that may arise 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, causing wood decay.