Glazing Repairs
Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is working as well as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are a few of the most common issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They secure, insulate and seal windows against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some time. There are a variety of options for repair according to your budget and timeline.
Fogging inside your double paned IGU is among the most commonly reported indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes of your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through and cause condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you get your window seals repaired by an expert.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas like argon or xenon that assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets begin to deteriorate due to age and exposure. The process is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can lead to mildew and mold if it is not dealt with. This can eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU, destroying the appearance and weakening insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from falling apart. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows, as it can cause damage to the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your window with insulation as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Also, be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window can be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or cause a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger to anyone who comes in contact with it, especially children or pets. Shattered glass is not only a risk to safety however, it can be a challenge to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames and other surfaces.
If a window is cracked, the first step is to seal it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is essential to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to install your glass, take care to place it in the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure to the frame, wrap 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 that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural problems that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe damage with time. It is essential to address any structural problems as soon as you can in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design errors and poor installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping. This can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. Double Glazing Window Repairs havant will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure the work area is clear of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a 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.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be fixed using 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 and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more complicated issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many issues with sash windows. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be picked up through a professional window inspection and ensure that the window is in good condition for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a hassle and also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also risky when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage, and loss of cool air or heat.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and working well. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and shut. If the problem persists it could mean that the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems that could arise include a faulty the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and re-cord them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to guard against water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to prevent it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.