Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your window or door is operating as well as it can, enhancing its overall efficiency.
It isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are some of the most common problems that require repair:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component of your window system. They protect, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some point. The good news is there are several options for repair depending on your budget and timeline.
One of the most frequent indications that the window seals in your home are failing is fogging in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through and create condensation. Steamers can be used to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a faulty seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon and xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water penetration into the building envelope, resulting in mildew and mold. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and weakening insulation.
The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Do not add reflective film to your window with insulation because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Finally, be careful when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and possibly even water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially children or pets. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety, but 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 windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is important to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes ready to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be made specifically for your frame. To avoid committing mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass you just bought, insert it carefully into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too large can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small could fall off the frame and let drafts in your home.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the edges of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is important that you fix any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other stresses. If these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and improper installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which could affect the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repairs if needed.
The first step of an inspection of the glazing is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that employees are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or the major frame or sash parts.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance with more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved by a visual examination. A professional window inspection can detect things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good condition for future use. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and do not need replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap closed. double glazing repairs can result in injuries, property damage, and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time, and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty the sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which can 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.