Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are many options to repair them, based on your budget.
One of the most frequent indications that the window seals in your home 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 seep in, creating condensation. You can use a steamer to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you fix your window seals by an expert.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade over time because of exposure and age. The process is accelerated by poor care or by environmental factors, such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best method to prevent window seals from falling apart. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Do not add a reflective film to your insulated window, since this could invalidate the guarantee and damage the sealant. Finally, be careful when using chemicals, such as paint strippers because they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window could fall and break further windows or cause drafts and even insects or water to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes into contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety risk, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause further damage to frames, sash, and adjacent surfaces.
double glazing repair to do when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is essential to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid 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 to install the glass, put it with care into the frame and check for a flush fit to the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane that's too large could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small may fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure it is even around the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing system are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are properly installed and that they are not leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues are risky and could cause serious destruction over time. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to resist winds and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and damaging. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels, which can impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks on window frames made of wood can be repaired with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is generally best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite oil. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for people living in the structure could let the initial investment be recouped. In addition, a new system could help bring the existing structure into conformance to more strict building code requirements 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 assessment of the window can detect issues like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. The most common problems can be fixed easily and do not require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be risky if they suddenly snap shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and close. However, if the problem persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. This causes them swell and shrink, which can result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood, and by applying the sash paint or sealer to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that may be caused by a defective the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to avoid water ingress, rot and other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional way to stop it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.