Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important component of your glazing system. They protect the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they might require repair or replacement at some point. The good news is that there are a variety of options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeline.
One of the most common indicators that your window seals are failing is fogging in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. Steamers are a great option to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you get your window seals repaired by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal could 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 maintain heat in the home. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in the growth of 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 blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best way to avoid window seals being damaged. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, as it can be able to penetrate the sash and cause damage to the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, as it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Also, be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, since they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window could fall and break other windows or cause drafts and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A broken glass pane can be a danger for anyone who comes in contact with it, especially children or pets. Shattered glass is not only a safety risk, 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 windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of the house until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's essential to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be made specifically for your frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
When you are ready to install your new glass, carefully place it in the frame. Make sure that it's flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too big could cause clouding and swelling of the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small can fall off the frame and let drafts in your home.
After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. When 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 essential for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaky.
double glazing window repairs and sagging wall are structural problems that need to be addressed. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe destruction over time. It is crucial to address any structural problems as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other stresses. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and improper installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair steps if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the area of work is free of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A small crack in wooden window panes can often be fixed with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotten wood is typically 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 usually the ones to handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A new system could also help bring an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of problems with sash windows. A professional assessment of the window can detect things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good order to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and do not require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open can be annoying and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also a risk when windows suddenly snap shut, causing injuries, property damage or loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists it could be because the balances aren't working correctly or that 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 swell and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an airtight seal around the wood and by applying an sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and shut windows for sash. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then re-cording them.
Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to prevent water intrusion, rot and other problems that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to stop it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.