Glazing Repairs

The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most common problems that require fixing:.

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against outside 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 point. There are several options available to repair them, based on your budget.

Fogging in your double paned IGU is one of the most common indications that your window seals have failed. 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 a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like 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 window panes, a faulty seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon that assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and maintain warm within the house. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.

Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and aging. Degradation can be accelerated through poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water penetration into the building envelope, resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.

Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best method to stop window seals from breaking down. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows as it can be able to penetrate the sash, and damage the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, since it could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can damage sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window may fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that has been broken is not just a risk to safety, but it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.

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

Then, be sure to take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash 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 will have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid making mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.

When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it in the frame with care and check for an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small may fall out of the frame or let drafts in.

After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured by a second 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, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match the window.

Structural Problems

The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated or misaligned. They also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been properly installed and aren't leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be extremely dangerous and may lead to severe damage in the future. It is essential to take care of any structural issues promptly in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future.

Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. When these components fail the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or poor installation.

Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels, which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.

Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is clear of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.

For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks on window frames made of wood can be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is usually best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window companies.

Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a new system could help bring the current structure into compliance with the 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 window assessment will reveal things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good order for its future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and do not require replacement.

Problems like a sash windows that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and could also impact your home's energy efficiency. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can result in injuries, property damage, and the loss of heat or air conditioning.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. 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 wooden window sashes absorb moisture and be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping a tight seal around the wood and by applying a sash paint or sealer to shield against moisture.

Other sash issues that may be caused by a defective sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or door repair any damaged parts and reconnect them.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is important to keep them in good shape to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.