Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right can increase the value of your home. It also ensures that your window or upvc door repairs near me is operating as efficiently as it can, enhancing its overall efficiency.

It can be a challenge to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be addressed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will have to be replaced at some moment. The good news is there are a variety of options for repair in accordance with your budget and timeline.

One of the most obvious indications that your window seals aren't working is fogging in your double glazing repairs pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture get in, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer or window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.

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 glass panes is filled with an inert gas, such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.

Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if it is not taken care of. This can eat away at the frame and upvc door repairs near me sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.

The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window may fall and break windows or cause drafts and even insects or water to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken can also be dangerous to anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a risk to safety however, it can also be difficult to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames and other surfaces.

The first thing to do when a window has cracked is to tape it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is especially important for upper-story window.

Then, be sure to take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.

It is important to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.

Once you're ready to put in the glass, put it in the frame with care and check for an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small may be thrown out of the frame or let drafts in.

After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of glaziers' compound around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. After drying paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems is essential for the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaky.

The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems are dangerous and can lead to serious damage with time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the road.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to be able to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. The water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.

Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repairs if needed.

The first step of a glazing inspection is to ensure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.

Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks in windows made of wood can be fixed using an epoxy that is two-part, but rotted or severely damaged wood is usually best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.

Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system could help bring the structure in line with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window issues may be identified and resolved through a visual inspection. A professional window inspection can identify things like wood that is rotting or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good shape for its future use. Fortunately, the most frequent problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.

Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage and loss of cool air or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying it with lubricant could make it easier to open and shut. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.

Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by taking off the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to protect the glass from water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.