Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
It isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems that require fixing:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They are used to secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some moment. There are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow water to get in and cause condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a failing seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon, which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep heat within the home. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
Over time rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. The process is accelerated by poor care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if it is not taken care of. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it can cause damage to the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and even insects or water to infiltrate your home. A broken glass pane can be a danger for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass is difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
If a window pane breaks the first step is to tape it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Next, take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
After determining the window's opening, it is important to ensure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid any mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your glass, take care to place it in the frame. Check that it fits flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small may be thrown out of the frame or let drafts get in.
After you've ensured that the new pane is secure, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it is even around the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are essential for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector will also examine the gaskets and sealants, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and can lead to serious damage over time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. The root causes of these failures include inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which can impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair actions if necessary.
The first step in an inspection of glazing is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. double glazing repairs is also a good idea to use a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotten wood should be replaced. Sticking sashes can often be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite oil. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more complex issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more strict building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many problems with sash windows. A professional window assessment can identify things like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, assuring that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a source of frustration and could also impact your home's energy efficiency. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly snap shut and cause injuries, property damage, and loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and close. If the issue persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and applying regularly paint or a sash sealer to protect against moisture.
Other issues with sash windows include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. They can be repaired by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components, and then reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to prevent water intrusion and rot as well as other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.