The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them 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'll need to be replaced at some moment. There are many options for repairs depending on your budget and timeframe.
Fogging in your double paned IGU is one of the most commonly reported signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to get in, causing 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 best solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not dealt with. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best way to prevent window seals from breaking down. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. 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 an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window can fall and cause other windows to break or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly children or pets. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause additional damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
If a window is cracked the first step is to seal it up with a cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you are 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's too large could cause the wood to expand and a pane that is too small may be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure by a second cord of compound for glaziers' around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's even around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. During double glazing repair , a professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, damaged or misaligned. The inspector will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to ensure they have been properly installed and are not leaking.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems can be very hazardous and could result in serious damage over time. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as soon as you can so that you avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other stresses. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. The main causes for these failures include poor construction, design errors and poor 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 look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. You can also utilize 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 in window frames made of wood can be fixed using two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is generally best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more difficult problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.
Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and enhanced comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system can assist in bringing the existing structure into conformance with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. A professional window assessment can identify things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and do not need replacement.
Problems such as the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and can affect the efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more easily. If the issue persists it could be because the balances aren't working properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time, and are affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an encapsulated seal around the wood and by regularly applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before re-cording them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be re-stained to restore their appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is a different option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.
