Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is working as well as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
However, it isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing needs professional repair. Here are double glazing repairs of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They are used to secure the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some point. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
One of the most common signs that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to repair your window seals by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon that helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.
The best way to prevent a breakdown of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your insulated window, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. 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 clear problem that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane in a window can fall and cause other windows to break or cause a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that has been broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Shattered glass is not only a risk to safety but can be a challenge to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames and other surfaces.
If a window is cracked, the first step is to board 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 can replace the glass. This is particularly important for upper-story window.
Take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be made specifically for your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready to install the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too large can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small may fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. After the compound has dried, paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be dangerous and can lead to serious damage over time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. The water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and security. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should begin by ensuring that the area of work is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a 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 a lack of or damaged hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but rotted or severely damaged wood is usually best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones who handle more difficult problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the improved comfort for the residents could let the initial investment be recouped. A replacement system may 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
Many sash window issues may be identified and resolved by a visual examination. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass are all detected by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good shape for future use. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like 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 slam closed. This could result in injuries, property damage and a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more easily. If the problem continues it could be because the balances don't work correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and are affected by changing levels of humidity. This causes them to expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an encapsulated seal around the wood and by applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues include a damaged cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then re-cording them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good shape to avoid water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.