Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is operating as efficiently as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems that require repair:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. 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 moment. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is among the most common indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's 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 glass panes is filled with an inert gas, such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the home. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. 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 addressed. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can cause damage to the seal. Do not add reflective films to your insulated window, because it could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
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Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A broken glass pane could also pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly children or pets. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.
If a window is cracked the first step is to tape it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. Once the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It's important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to put it in the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small may be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
Once the new pane has been secured, you can roll another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners and supports for corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been installed correctly and aren't leaky.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues can be hazardous and could result in serious damage over time. It is important that you address any structural problems as soon as you can in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and poor installation.
Another issue that is common is warping. This can result in deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency and security. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should begin by ensuring that the work area is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a harness and ladder 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 few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be fixed using two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is usually recommended replacement. Sashes that stick can be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite oil. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window manufacturers.
Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and enhanced occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. In addition, a new system can assist in bringing the current structure into compliance with the more strict building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can all be detected through a professional window inspection, ensuring the window is in good order for its future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open could be frustrating and affect the efficiency of your home. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage, and loss of cool air or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and working well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the issue persists, it could indicate that the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and are affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be avoided by keeping a tight seal around the wood and by applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues include a damaged lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. They can be repaired by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged components, and then replace them with a new cord.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good shape to prevent water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.