Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your window or door is operating as efficiently as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It isn't always easy to determine whether the problem you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They protect the windows, insulate them and seal against moisture and air outside. 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 time. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned IGU is one of the most frequent indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows can be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow water to get in and create condensation. Steamers are a great option to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is best to have your window seals fixed by an expert.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a faulty seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefits of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to degrade due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope, resulting in mold and mildew. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and damaging your insulation.
The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows because it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Do not add reflective films to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Finally, be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window may fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to infiltrate your home. A broken pane of glass could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, 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 wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
After measuring the window opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes on hand however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit the frame. To avoid committing mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it in the frame with care and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets that support it. A new glass pane that's too large can swell and cloud the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.
After you've ensured that the new pane is secure, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will inspect anchors, fasteners, and supports to see whether they are corroded deteriorated or misaligned. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been installed correctly and are not leaking.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues are risky and could cause serious damage with time. It is crucial to address any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and damaging. The underlying causes of these failures include inadequate construction, design mistakes, and inadequate installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can result in deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs steps if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is clear of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety equipment. It is also a good idea to use a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks in wooden window panes can often be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but rotted or severely damaged wood is generally better replaced. Sticking sashes can often be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A replacement system may also help bring an existing structure into conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can be picked up with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most common issues are less severe and do not necessarily require replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can cause injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changes in humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before reconnecting them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to prevent water intrusion and rot, as well as other issues that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained double glazing repairs can also be re-leaded in order to prevent it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.