Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are some of the most frequent issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system that protect, insulate and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will have to be replaced at some point. The good news is that there are many options for repairs depending on your budget and timeline.
One of the most frequent indications that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. Steamers are a great option to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended to have your window seals fixed by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with an inert gas like argon or xenon which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. 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 can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, destroying the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method to prevent window seals from breaking down. For instance, you should avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, as it can be able to penetrate the sash, and damage the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your window with insulation as this could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create drafts, or allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a risk for safety, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash, and other surfaces.
If a window pane breaks, the first step is to seal it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for upper-story windows.
Take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It's important to measure the window's opening and make sure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could need to be cut to fit the frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you're ready to install the glass you just bought, insert it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small may fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured by a second cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are essential for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, degraded, or misaligned. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and aren't leaky.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues are risky and could cause serious damage over time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as soon as you can so that you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. Water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. The root causes of the failures are inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels, which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs steps if required.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure the area of work is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows are missing or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is generally best replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite lubricant. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort of occupants may allow the initial investment to be returned. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many sash window problems. A professional assessment of the window will reveal things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good order for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Issues like the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of cool air or heat.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying lubricant on it can make it easier to open and shut. If the issue persists it could mean that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. double glazing repairs causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to get stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash problems include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. A carpenter can solve these problems by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged components, then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to guard against water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is an additional method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.