Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It also ensures that your window or door is operating as efficiently as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
However, it isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are some of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the reality is that they'll need to be replaced at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow water to get in and cause condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the 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 failing seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon and xenon, which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. The degrading process is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from being damaged. For instance, you should avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows because it could be able to penetrate the sash and cause damage to the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window that is insulated, because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Also, be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, since they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break other windows, or create drafts and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A broken pane of glass can pose danger to anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a safety risk, but it can be a challenge to remove and cause further damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
If a window is cracked the first step is to tape it up with the cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. double glazing repairs is especially important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It is essential to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be cut specifically for your frame. To avoid making mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to place it in the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large could cause the wood to expand and a pane that is too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger, ensuring that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is essential for the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also check the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they're installed correctly and aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by inadequate construction, design errors or poor installation.
Another issue that is common is warping. This can result in deformed or distorted glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair actions if necessary.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. It's also a good idea to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite oil. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to tackle more complicated issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be returned. Additionally, a replacement system could help bring the existing structure into conformance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of problems with sash windows. A professional window inspection will reveal things like wood that is rotting, paintwork damage and broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good order for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a source of frustration and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage, and loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and shut. If the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. They then expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems include a damaged lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged components, then reconnecting them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to guard against water ingress and rot which may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.