Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It can be difficult to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common issues that need fixing:.

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are an essential part of your window system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some moment. The good news is that there are several options for upvc repair depending on your budget and timeline.

One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals are failing is fogging in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you fix your window seals by a professional.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a faulty seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon which help the IGU to resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.

As time passes rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can lead to mildew and mold if not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and weakening insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from falling apart. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows, because it could work its way into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Do not add reflective films to your window that is insulated, as this could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can damage sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and break further windows or cause drafts and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A broken pane of glass can be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.

The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This method is particularly crucial for upper-story windows.

Take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.

It is essential to measure the window's opening and make sure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers stock 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 have to be custom cut for your frame. To avoid a mistake make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.

When you're ready to install the new glass, place it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A new glass pane that's too huge could cause clouding and swelling of the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts in your home.

After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it on the frame to match the window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety performance, performance, and conformity of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see whether they are corroded degraded, or misaligned. They also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are installed correctly and that they aren't leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues are risky and can lead to serious destruction over time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues promptly so that you avoid costly repairs in the future.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to be able to withstand wind loads and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and destructive. The root causes of these failures include poor construction, design flaws and poor installation.

Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which can impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs measures if needed.

Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the area of work is free of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. It is also recommended to use a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.

For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotted wood is generally best replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite oil. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more complicated issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash elements.

Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A replacement system may also help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.

Sash Issues

Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed through an examination. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can be detected through a professional window inspection and ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.

Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also risky when windows suddenly snap shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more quickly. 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 be affected by changes in humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and applying regularly a sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues include a damaged lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged components, then re-cording them.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good shape to prevent water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.