Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window can increase the value of your home. It also ensures that your window or door is operating as efficiently as it can, increasing its overall performance.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires 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 seal windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. The good news is there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
One of the most common indications that your window seals are failing is fogging in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows could be the result of an unsound seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This allows water to get in and cause condensation. While you can try a few quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most effective solution is to repair your window seals by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon and xenon, which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to deteriorate due to age and exposure. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could get into the sash, and damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window that is insulated, because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Be cautious 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 clear issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window may fall and break windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to infiltrate your home. double glazing repair broken pane of glass can pose danger to anyone who comes into 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 further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
If a window pane breaks, the first step is to seal it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows with higher levels.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points from the frame recesses. Once the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After determining the window's opening, it is important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your new glass, carefully place it into the frame. Make sure it is perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the surrounding wood, while one that's too small may fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it is even around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is crucial to the safety and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector will also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been properly installed and are not leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be extremely risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is essential to address any structural problems as soon as you can in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair actions if necessary.
The first step in an inspection of the glazing is to ensure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It's also a good idea to use the ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is generally recommended replacement. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are usually left to aluminum window manufacturers.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort of occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be recouped. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure into compliance with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and fix a variety of problems with sash windows. A professional window inspection can detect things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a nuisance and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage, and loss of cool air or heat.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists, it could indicate that the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an airtight seal around the wood, and by applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and shut sash windows. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good shape to prevent water intrusion, rot and other problems that may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different option to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.