Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important component of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they might require repair or replacement at some moment. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is one of the most common 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 to seep in, creating condensation. While you can try a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon that helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade over time due to exposure and age. The process is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not taken care of. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could get into the sash and damage the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Finally, be careful when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, since they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly children or pets. Glass that is shattering is not just an hazard to safety, but it can also be difficult to get rid of and cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This is particularly important for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers, pry old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. Once the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's essential to make sure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes on hand however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass you just bought, insert it in the frame with care and check for a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small could fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.
After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. He or she also checks the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaky.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe damage over time. It is crucial to address any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and damaging. The root causes of the failures are inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which can impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on wooden window panes, but damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite lubricant. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a new system can help bring the structure in line with the more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved through a visual examination. A professional assessment of the window can identify issues like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent problems are less serious and don't require replacement.
Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a hassle and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more quickly. However, if double glazing repairs persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time, and are affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty the sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then re-cording them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to prevent water intrusion, rot and other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.