Glazing Repairs

Correctly repairing your glass will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They are used to secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they could require repair or replacement at some moment. The good news is there are several options for repair depending on your budget and timeline.

One of the most common indications that the window seals in your home are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended to get your window seals repaired by a professional.

A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon, which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.

As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and compromising insulation.

The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows as it can get into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Finally, be careful when using chemical products, such as paint strippers because they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and break further windows or cause drafts and even insects or water to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk for anyone who comes in contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a safety risk, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash, and other surfaces.

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

Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, pry out old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that fix 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 exact proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes on hand, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might 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 to install your new glass, be sure to place it into the frame. Make sure that it's in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too huge can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood around it, while one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.

Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger to ensure it is even around the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.

Structural Issues

The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. They also check the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural problems that need to be addressed. These issues can be extremely hazardous and could result in severe damage in the future. It is important that you take care of any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly Upvc door repairs near me later on.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand winds and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and poor installation.

Another issue that is common is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend upvc door repairs near me if required.

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 the proper safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. It's also a good idea to use the ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.

Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is generally recommended replacement. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more difficult problems like replacing sliding mechanisms, or the major frame or sash parts.

Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure into line with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many problems with sash windows. A professional assessment of the window will reveal things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good condition for future use. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and do not require replacement.

Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This can result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.

Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying lubricant on it can make them easier to open and shut. If the issue persists, it could indicate that the balances don't work correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.

Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture.

Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these issues by taking off the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged components, then 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 prevent water ingress and rot as well as other problems that can 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.