Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it can be tricky to know whether the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your window system. They secure, insulate, and seal windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double paned IGU is among the most frequent signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes of your IGU. This allows water to get in and create condensation. While you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, such as using a steamer or window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced by an expert.
A failing seal can also 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 resist heat transfer and keep 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 start to degrade due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water penetration into the building envelope, resulting in mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could work its way into the sash, and damage the seal. Do not add a reflective film to your insulated window, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Finally, be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers because they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A broken pane in a window may fall and break further windows or cause drafts and possibly even water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause further damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is especially crucial for windows with higher levels.
Then, be double glazing repairs to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, wash the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass, it will likely need to be cut specifically to fit your frame. To avoid making mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, carefully put it in the frame. Make sure it is in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small can be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts in.
After you've ensured that the new pane is secure to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. After drying, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is vital to the security and performance of glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. They also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to make sure they have been properly installed and are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious damage over time. It is important that you address any structural problems promptly to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail, the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. The main causes for these failures include poor construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
The first step in an inspection of the glazing is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that workers are wearing the proper safety gear. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in windows made of wood can be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotted wood is usually best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort of occupants may allow the initial investment to be recouped. In addition, a replacement system could help bring the structure in line to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window issues may be easily identified and dealt with by a visual inspection. A professional window inspection will reveal things like wood that is rotting, paintwork damage and broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good shape for future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can result in injuries, property damage, and a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. If double glazing repairs persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. They can expand and shrink, which can result in them becoming stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood and applying regularly a sash sealer or painting to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems that could occur are a damaged sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these problems by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which can occur when the 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.
