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 tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are some of most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from external air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and could require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. The good news is that there are a variety of options for repair depending on your budget and timeline.
Fogging inside your double paned insulated glass unit is among the most frequent indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture seep in, creating condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer, or applying window putty, the best solution is to have your window seals repaired by an expert.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which help the IGU resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. If the window seal is damaged, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to deteriorate due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can lead to mildew and mold if it is not taken care of. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows as it can get into the sash and damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass, as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common problem that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window could fall and break other windows or cause drafts and possibly even water or insects to enter your home. A broken pane of glass could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety however, it can also be difficult to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to seal it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is particularly important for upper-story window.
Take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points out of the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
When you are ready to put in your new glass, carefully place it into the frame. Check that it fits in a straight line with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too huge can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small may fall off the frame and let drafts enter your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with 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 frameworks and systems for framing is crucial to the safety, performance, and compliance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners, and supports to see whether they are corroded degraded, or misaligned. He or she will also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure they are installed correctly and aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues can be extremely dangerous and may lead to severe damage in the future. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as soon as possible so that you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other stresses. If these components fail, the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors or improper installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which could affect the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repairs if required.
The first step in an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing the proper safety gear. double glazing repair , hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. It's also an excellent idea to wear a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks on windows made of wood can be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is generally best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the improved comfort for the people living in the structure could let the initial investment be recouped. Additionally, a replacement system can help bring the structure in line with more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of sash window problems. A professional assessment of the window will reveal things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open can be annoying and impact the energy efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly snap shut and cause injuries, property damage, and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and close. If the problem continues it could be because the balances don't work properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected by changes in humidity. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an airtight seal around the wood and by applying an sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make windows more difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that may occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.