Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
However, it can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of the most common issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important component of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time but the reality is they could require repair or replacement at some moment. There are a variety of options to repair them, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is among the most common signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Steamers can be used to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you get your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keep heat in the house. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to deteriorate due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage 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. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass within a window could fall and cause other windows to break or create a draft, or even allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes children and pets. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass can be difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, sash, and other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Next, take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is important to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is the exact right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to have to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it carefully into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Harrow double glazing repair with your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. When dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial for the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets to make sure they are installed correctly and aren't leaky.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These issues can be dangerous and could cause serious damage over time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand winds and other strains. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. The root causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors, and inadequate installation.
Another issue that is common is warping, which can result in deformed or distorted glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repairs if needed.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to ensure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. 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 windows made of wood include loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on windows made of wood, however damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to tackle more complicated issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A new system could also help bring an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many sash window issues may be easily diagnosed and addressed by an examination. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Fortunately, the most frequent problems are less serious and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open could be frustrating and affect the efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying lubricant on it can make it easier to open and close. If the problem persists it could be because the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by changing humidity levels. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood and by regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to guard against moisture.
Other issues with sash windows include a damaged lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and close sash windows. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.