Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be addressed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They protect the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the fact is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is one of the most frequent indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow water to get in, causing condensation. While you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, such as using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, like xenon and argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. When the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade over time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in the growth of mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU, destroying the appearance of the building 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. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows as it can get into the sash, and damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window with insulation since this could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
double glazing
Broken glass is an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and break further windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to infiltrate your home. A broken glass pane can also be dangerous to anyone who comes into contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
The first thing to do when a window 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 the house until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.
Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass is removed, wash the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, be sure to place it into the frame. Check that it fits perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could fall out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
Once the new pane is secured, you can roll another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with 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 is crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see whether they have corroded, deteriorated or misaligned. He or she will also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure they have been properly installed and aren't leaky.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These issues can be extremely risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
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 appropriate safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.
Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is typically recommended replacement. 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 handle more difficult problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance with the more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good condition for future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and don't need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a nuisance and also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also dangerous if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage, and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the problem persists it could mean that the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and can be affected by changes in humidity levels. Resource causes them swell and shrink, which may result in them becoming stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an encapsulated seal around the wood and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to protect the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which may occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.
