Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is operating as well as it can, enhancing its overall performance.
double glazing repairs can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are some of the most common problems that require repair:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They are used to secure the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some point. There are several options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeframe.
One of the most common signs that the window seals in your home are failing is fogging in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. While you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, such as using a steamer or window putty, the best solution is to repair your window seals by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon and xenon that helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. Once the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water intrusion into the building envelope resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, you should avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could be able to penetrate the sash and damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. 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 common issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane in a window can be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or cause drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly children or pets. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety, but it can be a challenge to remove and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of your house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly 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 take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It's important to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted but if you're looking to get security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to need to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the glass you just bought, insert it with care into the frame and check for a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the surrounding wood, while one that's too small could fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger, ensuring that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your 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, the expert will examine anchors, fasteners, and supports to see whether they are corroded damaged or misaligned. He or she will also examine the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to make sure they have been properly installed and are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues are risky and could lead to severe damage with time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other strains. When these components fail, the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes or inadequate installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which can impact the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and suggests repair steps if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is clear of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. It's also recommended to use a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more complex issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, but the savings in energy consumption as well as the increased comfort of people living in the structure could let the initial investment be recouped. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be picked up by a professional window assessment, ensuring the window is in good shape for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a hassle and could also impact your home's energy efficiency. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap closed. This can result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and shut. If the problem continues it could be because the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changing humidity levels. This causes them swell and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood and by regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to shield against moisture.
Other sash problems include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close sash windows. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good condition to avoid water ingress and rot as well as other problems that may arise when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.