Glazing Repairs
Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
However, it isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems that require repair:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They secure, insulate and seal windows against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last a long time and could require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent 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 be absorbed, 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 most efficient solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep warm within the house. When the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time because of exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can lead to mildew and mold if it is not taken care of. 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 performing regular maintenance are the best ways to avoid window seals breaking down. For instance, you should avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, since they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break further windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to get 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. Shattered glass is not only a safety risk but can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to stop further shattering and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass is removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window opening, it's important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes on hand, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it carefully into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts in.
Once the new pane is secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. After the compound has dried, paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. He or she will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to ensure they have been installed correctly and are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues can be risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is important that you take care of any structural issues as soon as you can so that you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. When these components fail, the water intrusion that results can be costly and damaging. These failures are often caused by inadequate construction, design errors and improper installation.
Another issue that is common is warping. This can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs actions if necessary.
The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. It's also recommended 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 can be used to repair minor cracks on windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the increased comfort of people living in the structure could make it possible for the initial investment to be returned. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and resolve a number of sash window problems. A professional window assessment can detect issues like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good condition for its future use. Most of the problems that arise can be easily fixed and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying lubricant on it can make it easier to open and close. However, if the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and can be affected by changing humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and close sash windows. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. double glazing repairs near me is important to maintain them in good condition to prevent water intrusion and rot as well as other problems that can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.