Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right can boost your home's value. It also ensures that your door or window is working as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.

It isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require repair:.

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system that secure, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will have to be replaced at some moment. There are a variety of options for repair depending on your budget and timeframe.

Fogging in your double paned IGU is among the most commonly reported indications that the Window doctor seals are failing. Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick-fixes to defog your windows, for instance using a steamer, or applying window putty, the most effective solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a failing seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and keep heat within the home. If the window seal is damaged, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.

Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation.

The best way to prevent a breakdown of window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows, because it could get into the sash and damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can harm sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and cause further windows to break, or create a draft, or even allow insects or water to enter your home. A broken pane of glass can be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass is difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.

The first step to take when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows that are higher up.

Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for new window.

It's important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be cut specifically for the frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.

Once you're ready to put in the glass, put it carefully into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of the glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and that they aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems can be very risky and could cause severe damage in the future. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly upvc repairs near me down the road.

Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and improper installation.

Another issue that is common is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.

Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the work area is clear of obstructions and everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. 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.

For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve a lack of 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 typically better replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them 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.

The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the increased comfort of occupants may let the initial investment be recouped. Additionally, a replacement system could help bring the structure in line with the more strict building codes for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help identify and address many issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass are all picked up by a professional window assessment and ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent issues are less severe and don't require replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage and loss of cool or warm air.

Sliding windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more quickly. If the problem persists, it could indicate that the balances don't work properly or there is a problem with the sash.

Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changing levels of humidity. This causes them swell and shrink, which may cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood and applying regularly a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture.

Other issues with sash windows include a damaged cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close sash windows. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged components, and then replace them with a new cord.

Stained glass windows can be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to protect the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.