Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require fixing:.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some moment. There are several options available to repair them, based on your budget.
One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals aren't working is fogging in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to have your window seals fixed by an experienced 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 panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and keep heat within the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Over time rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The degradation is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if it is not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance are the best ways to prevent window seals from falling apart. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could get into the sash, and damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.
If a window is cracked the first step is to seal it up using 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.
Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It is important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, carefully place it into the frame. Make sure it is flush with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too huge 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 wrap another cord 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 it's level with the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, degraded, or misaligned. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious damage with time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other strains. If these components fail, the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and poor installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repair measures if necessary.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is clear of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. double glazing repairs , hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety gear. It's also a good idea to use a harness and ladder to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotten wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones who handle more complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of occupants may let the initial investment be returned. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and fix a variety of sash window problems. Things like rotting timber, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good order to be used in the future. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and do not need replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a hassle and also affect your home's energy efficiency. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This could result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and shut. However, if the problem persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can fix these issues by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to avoid water ingress, rot and other problems that may arise when 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.