Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the problem you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will need to be replaced at some time. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned IGU is among the most frequent signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows can be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through and cause condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation 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 xenon or argon, which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time because of exposure and age. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or 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 could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance are the best ways to avoid window seals being damaged. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows because it could be able to penetrate the sash and cause damage to the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in 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 is broken can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, including pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk, but it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It is important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the exact right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available to insert, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid any mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you are ready to install your new glass, carefully place it in the frame. Check that it fits perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small could fall out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
Once the new pane is secured, you can roll another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
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, the professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is important to fix any structural issues as quickly as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and destructive. The root causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Another issue that is common is warping, which could result in deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency and safety. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repair measures if necessary.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wooden windows include loose or missing hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is typically recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Dulwich window repairs , such as the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.
The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for people living in the structure could make it possible for the initial investment to be returned. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure into line with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with through an examination. A professional assessment of the window will reveal things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and don't need replacement.
Issues like the sash not closing or open can be annoying and affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more easily. 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 can absorb moisture and are affected by changing humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to shield against moisture.
Other issues with sash windows include a damaged cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can solve these issues by taking off the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows may be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good condition to avoid water ingress, rot and other problems that may arise when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.