Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your window or door is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
It can be difficult to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your window system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from external air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the fact is that they will need to be replaced at some time. The good news is that there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
One of the most frequent indications that your window seals are failing is fogging in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU and cause condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended to get your window seals repaired by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak 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 argon and xenon which help the IGU to resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.
Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to age and exposure. The process can be accelerated by improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope, resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method to prevent window seals from falling apart. For instance, you should avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows since it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Do not apply a reflective film to your window that is insulated, because it could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause other windows to break or create drafts, or allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly pets or children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass can be difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.
If a window pane breaks, the first step is to seal it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is especially important for windows that are higher up.
Next, take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold 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 opening and make sure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be cut specifically to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your glass, take care to put it in the frame. Make sure it is perfectly with the rabbets. double glazing window repairs that's too huge can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small could fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure it's level with the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaky.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These issues can be extremely risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other strains. When these components fail the water intrusion that results can be costly and damaging. The underlying causes of these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs actions if necessary.
Glazing inspections should begin by ensuring that the work area is clear of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also a good idea to use the ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotted wood is generally recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure into line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with by an inspection. A professional assessment of the window can identify things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good condition for future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and do not require replacement.
Issues like 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. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage and loss of cool air or heat.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can help them to open and close more easily. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by changing humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to get stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to shield against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.