Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that must be fixed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure the windows, insulate them and seal against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time, but the reality is they could require repair or replacement at some time. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
One of the most common indicators that the window seals in your home are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This allows moisture to enter the IGU and cause condensation. You can use a steamer to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you have your window seals fixed by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal will also 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 aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. When the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
Over time rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and damaging your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to avoid window seals breaking down. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, as it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and break further windows, or create drafts and even insects or water to get into your home. A glass pane that has been broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, including children or pets. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk however, it can be a challenge to remove, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows with higher levels.
Take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
It's important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you are ready to put in your glass, take care to place it into the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too huge can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small can be thrown off the frame or let drafts enter your home.
After the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is essential to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors and supports to determine whether they have corroded, degraded, or misaligned. They also inspect the gaskets and sealants to ensure they have been properly installed and aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that must be addressed. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage over the course of time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand winds, and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that results could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes and improper installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which may impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair steps if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by ensuring that the work area is clear of obstructions and everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to handle more complex issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
Replacing double glazing repairs Islington existing curtain wall system usually involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and fix a variety of issues with sash windows. A professional window assessment can detect things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage and loss of cool or warm air.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and close. If the problem continues, it could indicate that the balances don't work correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time, and are affected by changes in humidity. This causes them to expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and replace them with a new cord.
Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to protect the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.