The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your window or door is operating as efficiently as it can, enhancing its overall efficiency.
It isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional assistance. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will need to be replaced at some point. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
One of the most obvious indicators that your window seals aren't working is fogging in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). double glazing repair can be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This allows water to get in and cause 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 effective solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a failing seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keeps the heat inside the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time because of exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated through poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if it is not addressed. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best method to prevent window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass, since it could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that is broken can also be dangerous to anyone who comes into contact with it, including pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk, but it can also be difficult to get rid of and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
The first step to take when a window has damaged is to wrap it up with a cross patch of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After measuring the window opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert but if you're looking to get security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in your new glass, carefully put it in the frame. Check that it fits in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small may be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, damaged or misaligned. He or she will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber, to ensure that they are installed correctly and are not leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These issues can be dangerous and may lead to severe damage over the course of time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and poor installation.
Another issue that is common is warping, which could result in deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to ensure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks on windows made of wood can be fixed using a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is generally better replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more complicated issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the improved comfort for the occupants may allow the initial investment to be paid back. A replacement system may assist in bringing an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good condition for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues aren't as serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open could be frustrating and impact the efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can cause injuries, property damage and even a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming that can make sash windows harder to open and close. They can be repaired by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to guard against water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.
