Glazing Repairs

Making repairs to your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. It also ensures that your door or window is working as well as possible, improving its overall performance.

It can be difficult to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that require fixing:.

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and seal windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some moment. There are a variety of options for repair, based on your budget.

One of the most frequent indicators that the window seals in your home are failing is the presence of fog in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. While you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, such as using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon that aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and keep heat within the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also increase.

Over time rubber gaskets begin to deteriorate due to aging and exposure. The process can be accelerated by inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to avoid window seals breaking down. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows since 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 such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or cause a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A broken glass pane can also be dangerous to anyone who comes in contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a safety risk, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.

If a window repair pane breaks, the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows that are higher up.

Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.

It's important to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid making mistakes take a measurement of your window repairs's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.

When you're ready for installing the glass, put it with care into the frame and make sure it's a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could fall out of the frame or allow drafts in.

After you've ensured that the new pane is secured, roll another cord of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's even around the new pane. Once the compound is dry, paint it and the frame to match your window.

Structural Issues

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, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaky.

Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to severe damage in the future. It is important to address any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly 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 could be costly and destructive. The underlying causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors, and inadequate installation.

Another issue that is common is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repairs if required.

Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the area of work is free of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. It's also a good idea to use a harness and ladder for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.

For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be repaired with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotted wood is typically best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to tackle more complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.

Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system can assist in bringing the existing structure into conformance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window issues may be easily diagnosed and addressed through a visual examination. A professional assessment of the window can identify things like wood that is rotting, paintwork damage and broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good condition for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues aren't as serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.

Problems such as the sash not closing or open can be a nuisance and impact the efficiency of your home. It's also risky when windows suddenly snap shut and cause injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.

Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying lubricant on it can make it easier to open and close. However, if the problem 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 are affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and by regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty the sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged components, then re-cording them.

Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good condition to prevent water intrusion and rot, as well as other issues that may arise when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.