Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows from 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 time. There are a variety of options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeframe.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is among the most frequent indicators that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Steamers are a great option to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a faulty seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon that aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. When the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to deteriorate due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and damaging your insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best method to avoid window seals breaking down. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it could damage the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window with insulation since this could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant. Finally, be double glazing repairs near me when using chemical products, such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Shattered glass is not only a safety risk but can be a challenge to remove, and cause additional damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up with the cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.
Take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the exact right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid any 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 to put in your glass, take care to place it into the frame. Make sure it is in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too huge can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood around it, 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 glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers 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 Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is essential to the safety performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional examines anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also check the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe damage with time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. The main causes for these failures include poor construction, design errors and poor installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which may impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to ensure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing the proper safety gear. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. It's 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 a lack of or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more complex issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or the major frame or sash parts.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with through a visual inspection. A professional window inspection can identify things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for its future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and do not need replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close closed. This could result in injuries, property damage and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more quickly. However, if the problem persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood and applying regularly a sash sealer or painting to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged components, then re-cording them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which 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.