Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right can boost your home's value. It will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of most common problems that need to be fixed:

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some time. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.

One of the most obvious signs that your window seals aren't working is the presence of fog in the double glazing pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by an expert.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat inside the home. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost in the event that the window doctor near me (click to find out more) seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also increase.

Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated through improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.

The best way to avoid the loss of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Also, avoid adding 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 because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window can fall and break further windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that has been broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a risk to safety, but it can also be difficult to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces.

The first step to take when a windowpane is cracked is to tape it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.

Next, take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

After measuring the window's opening, it is important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.

When you're ready to install the new glass, place it in the frame with care and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small may fall out of the frame, or allow drafts get 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 seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional inspects fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. He or she will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been properly installed and aren't leaking.

Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues can be hazardous and could result in severe damage over the course of time. It is important that you fix any structural issues promptly to avoid costly repairs later on.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support in order to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. The main causes for the failures are poor construction, design errors and poor installation.

Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which can cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair steps if required.

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

Common repairs for windows made of wood 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. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite oil. More stubborn problems like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.

The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the increased comfort for people living in the structure could allow the initial investment to be returned. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the structure in line to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of problems with sash windows. A professional window assessment can identify issues like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for future use. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and don't require replacement.

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

Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't working properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.

Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and be affected by changes in levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which can result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged the sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and re-cord them.

Stained glass windows can be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that may occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.