Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
However, it isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are some of most common problems that need to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some moment. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
One of the most common indications that your window seals are failing is the presence of fog in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged 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 to have your window seals fixed by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon, which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase.
Over time rubber gaskets start to deteriorate due to aging and exposure. The degrading process is accelerated by poor care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and compromising insulation.
The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, as it can work its way into 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. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window may fall and break windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that has been broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash, and adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.
Next, take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. Once the glass has been removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
After determining the window's opening, it's important to ensure the new replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to install the glass, put it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small could be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it is even around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of the glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners and supports for corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
double glazing repairs near me and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems are dangerous and can lead to serious destruction over time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to be able to withstand winds and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and destructive. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repairs if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the area of work is free of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety gear. It's also a good idea to use a harness and ladder for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for occupants may allow the initial investment to be paid back. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more strict building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window issues may be easily identified and dealt with through a visual examination. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can be detected by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues aren't as serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open could be frustrating and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap shut. This can result in injuries, property damage, and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more quickly. If the problem continues it could be because the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that may be caused by a defective lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make sash windows harder to open and close. They can be repaired by a carpenter who will remove the sash, replace or repair any damaged components, and then re-cord them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.