Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. double glazing repairs will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It isn't easy to tell whether the problem you're experiencing is one that requires professional assistance. Here are some of the most frequent issues that need fixing:.
Seals that are damaged
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 period of time, but the reality is they might require repair or replacement at some moment. The good news is that there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most obvious indicators that your window seals aren't working is the presence of fog in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows moisture to enter the IGU and create condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an expert.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. Once the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time because of exposure and age. The degradation is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in the growth of mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and weakening insulation.
The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could be able to penetrate the sash and cause damage to the seal. Do not add reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical such as 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 can fall and cause other windows to break, or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety but can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to seal it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is especially important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, wash the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it with care into the frame and make sure it's a flush fit with the rabbets that support it. A new glass pane that's too big can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small may fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.
After the new pane is secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it is even around the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity of curtain wall frames and systems is crucial to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated or misaligned. They also check the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe destruction over time. It is crucial to address any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to resist wind loads and other stresses. If these components fail, the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. The main causes for these failures include inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which may impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and suggests repair steps if required.
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 employees are wearing the proper safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It's also recommended to use a harness and ladder for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. A small crack in wooden window panes can often be repaired with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotted wood is typically better replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite lubricant. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and enhanced occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can be detected with a professional assessment of the window, ensuring the window is in good shape for its future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and don't need replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that doesn't close or open can be a hassle and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage and loss of cool or warm air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking good and functioning properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. This causes them swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective lock for sash cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can be stained again to improve their appearance. It's important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.
