Glazing Repairs
Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure the windows, insulate them and seal against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time however, they might require repair or replacement at some moment. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
One of the most common indications that the window seals in your home are failing is the presence of fog in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes of your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended to have your window seals fixed by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a failing seal could cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas like argon or xenon that assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep warm within the house. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also rise.
Over time rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The degradation is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if not dealt with. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, destroying the appearance and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method to avoid window seals breaking down. For instance, avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, because it could be able to penetrate the sash, and damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass since it could invalidate the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window may fall and break other windows or cause drafts and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety but can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
The first step to take when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
It's important to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could need to be cut to fit the frame. To avoid committing mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready to install the glass you just bought, insert it carefully into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small could fall out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. Once Kentish Town double glazing repair , paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing system are crucial for the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. In an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could cause serious damage over time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as soon as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to resist the forces of wind and other stress. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. The main causes for these failures include poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which may affect the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should start by making sure the area of work is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotten wood should be replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite oil. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of problems with sash windows. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass are all identified by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and don't need replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and impact the efficiency of your home. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage, and loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can aid in opening and close more easily. However, 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 the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink, which could result in them becoming stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and replace them with a new cord.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to prevent water ingress, rot and other problems that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.