Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is operating as efficiently as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. The good news is there are several options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most common indications that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through and cause condensation. While you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, for instance using a steamer, or applying window putty, the best solution is to repair your window seals by a professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a failing seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, like xenon and argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also rise.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to aging and exposure. The degradation is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water penetration into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could be able to penetrate the sash, and 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 careful when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that is broken can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Shattered glass is not only a risk to safety, but it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.
Take precautions by wearing cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean all the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
After measuring the window opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to place it in the frame. Make sure it is in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small could be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts in.
Once you've made sure the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. Once the compound is dry, paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine if they are corroded, damaged or misaligned. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These problems are dangerous and can lead to serious damage over 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 substantial structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes or inadequate installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency and security. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.
Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. A small crack in wooden window panes can often be fixed using a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotten wood is usually recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more complex issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the improved comfort for the 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 in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. A professional window inspection can identify things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for future use. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and do not require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and impact the efficiency of your home. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This could result in injuries, property damage, and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and working well. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more easily. However, if the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and be affected by changing levels of humidity. This causes them swell and shrink, which may cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. double glazing repair near me can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying a sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems include a faulty cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can resolve these issues by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged components, then reconnecting them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It's important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that could occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to prevent it from leaking water into surrounding timber, causing wood decay.