Glazing Repairs

The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They secure, insulate, and seal windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time but the reality is they might require repair or replacement at some moment. There are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.

Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to enter the IGU and create condensation. Steamers are a great option to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to get your window seals repaired by an expert.

A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the house. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.

Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time because of exposure and age. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient maintenance or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not addressed. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and weakening the insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best way to prevent 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 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 cause damage to sealant and window Doctor near me cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window replacement could fall and break further windows or cause drafts and possibly water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly children or pets. Shattered glass is not only a risk to safety however, it can be a challenge to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.

The first step to take when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.

Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points out of the frame recesses. After the glass is removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

It's important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is of the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for 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 too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that is too small could fall out of the frame or let drafts get in.

After you've ensured that the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the glass's perimeter to seal it to the frame and Window Doctor Near Me sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it and the frame to match your window.

Structural Issues

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

The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues are risky and can lead to serious damage over time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as fast as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. If these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and improper installation.

Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which may impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.

The first step of an inspection of glazing is to ensure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.

Common repairs for windows made of wood include loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to upvc repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones who handle more complex issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.

Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a new system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more strict building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help to identify and address many sash Window Doctor Near Me problems. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can be detected by a professional window assessment and ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and don't need replacement.

Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a hassle and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage or loss of cool air or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and shut. 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, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.

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

Stained glass windows may be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good condition to prevent water ingress and rot as well as other problems that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.