Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It isn't easy to tell what the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They protect the windows, insulate them and seal against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the fact is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are many options to repair them, based on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, for instance using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a failing seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon, which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not taken care of. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best method to prevent window seals from being damaged. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, since it could get into the sash and damage the seal. Do not add reflective film to your window that is insulated, because it could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, since they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and even insects or water to infiltrate your home. A broken glass pane could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially children or pets. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass is difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from 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 support 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 can fall off the frame and let drafts in your home.
After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured by a second cord of glaziers' compound around the edges of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it is even around the new pane. After the compound has dried, paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is essential to the safety performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners and supports for corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to make sure they are installed correctly and are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is crucial to address any structural problems as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes, and poor installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and safety. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the area of work is free of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. It's also a good idea to use a ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is generally recommended replacement. Sliding double glazing repair that are stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to tackle more difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort for residents could let the initial investment be returned. Additionally, a replacement system can assist in bringing the current structure into compliance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window issues may be easily diagnosed and addressed by a visual examination. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass are all detected by a professional window assessment and ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most common issues are less severe and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly snap shut and cause injuries, property damage, and loss of heat or cool air.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't working properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and be affected by changing humidity levels. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by applying a sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming that can make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged components, then re-cording them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It's important to maintain them in good order to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which can occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is another way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.
