The right repair of your window can boost your home's value. It also ensures that your window or door is working as well as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are some of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure the windows, insulate them and seal against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time but the reality is they might require repair or replacement at some point. There are a variety of options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most obvious signs 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 are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture seep in, creating condensation. Although you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, such as using a steamer or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal will also 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 help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Over time rubber gaskets begin to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could get into the sash and damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break further windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety risk, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern 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 especially important for windows that are higher up.
Then, be sure to take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass is removed, clean all the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be custom cut for your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you are ready to install your new glass, carefully place it in the frame. Check that it fits in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small can be thrown out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once you've made sure the new pane is secured by a second cord of compound for glaziers' around the edges of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure that it's even around the new pane. Once the compound is dry, paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is essential for the safety, compliance, and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will examine anchors, fasteners, and supports to see whether they are corroded damaged or misaligned. He or she will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to ensure they are installed correctly and are not leaking.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues can be extremely hazardous and could result in serious damage over time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other strains. The water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. The root causes of these failures are due to inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the area of work is free of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. It is also an excellent idea to wear a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks in wooden window panes can often be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but rotted or severely damaged wood is usually recommended replacement. Sashes that are stuck can usually be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of people living in the structure could make it possible for the initial investment to be paid back. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure into line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many sash window problems can be identified and resolved by a visual examination. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be identified through a professional window inspection and ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the problem persists it could be because the balances don't work correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
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 clogged within the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a tight seal on the wood and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and shut sash windows. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. double glazing repair is essential to keep them in good shape to protect the glass from water infiltration and rot that could occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.
