Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window will increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is operating as well as possible, improving its overall performance.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that 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 truth is that they'll 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 obvious signs that your window seals aren't working is the presence of fog in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to get your window seals repaired by an experienced professional.
A leaky seal can cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.
double glazing window repairs made of rubber begin to degrade over time because of exposure and age. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it can 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 chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and break windows or cause a draft and even insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety however, it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up with the cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Next, take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, wash the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window opening, it's essential to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit the frame. To avoid making mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the glass you just bought, insert it with care into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small can be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
After you've ensured that the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners, and supports to see if they are corroded, degraded or misaligned. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues are risky and could cause serious damage with time. It is important that you fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other stresses. If these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and improper installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which may impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure the work area is clear of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also a good idea to use a harness and ladder for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows include loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms and major frame or sash parts are usually left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the improved comfort for the residents could allow the initial investment to be returned. A replacement system may assist in bringing an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of issues with sash windows. A professional assessment of the window can identify issues like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good order for its future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and don't need replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open can be annoying and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray can help them to open and close more quickly. However, if the problem persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and replace them with a new cord.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to protect the glass from water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water into surrounding timber, causing wood decay.