Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of most frequent problems that must be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They secure, insulate and seal windows against outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they could require repair or replacement at some moment. The good news is there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon that helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time because of exposure and age. The process is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can result in mold and mildew if not dealt with. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows since it can cause damage to 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 careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause other windows to break, or create drafts, or allow water or insects into your home. A broken glass pane can also be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it, including children or pets. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety but can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as other surfaces.
If a window pane breaks, the first step is to tape it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
After determining the window's opening, it is important to ensure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes on hand, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid making mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the glass you just bought, insert it in the frame with care and check for an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A new glass pane that's too huge could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small could fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
Once double glazing repair has been secured, you can roll another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure it's even around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will inspect anchors, fasteners, and supports to see if they are corroded, degraded or misaligned. They also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to make sure they have been properly installed and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues are risky and can lead to serious damage over time. It is important to address any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads, and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and poor installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can result in deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and safety. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
The first step in an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that employees are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is usually recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to tackle more complex issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of residents could make it possible for the initial investment to be paid back. In addition, a new system could help bring the structure in line with more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of problems with sash windows. Things like rotting timber, damage to paintwork and broken glass are all detected with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and do not require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more quickly. If the problem continues, it could indicate that the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood, and by applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows may be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to guard against water ingress and rot which may occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is an additional option to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.