Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
It can be difficult to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most common problems that require fixing:.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, the reality is that they might require repair or replacement at some time. The good news is that there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most common indications that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows could be the result of an unsound seal between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow water to get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is best to fix your window seals by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your costs for energy will also increase.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can damage 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. Be double glazing repairs Stevenage when using chemical like paint strippers because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A shattered pane in a window could fall and cause other windows to break, or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can be a danger to anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash, and adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up with the cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is especially important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean all the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
It is important to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be custom cut for your frame. To avoid committing mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the glass you just bought, insert it with care into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets that hold it. 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 could fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. After drying, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is essential for the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, damaged or misaligned. The inspector will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been installed correctly and are not leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems can be very risky and could cause serious damage over time. It is important that you take care of any structural issues promptly so that you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to be able to withstand winds and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes and poor installation.
Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels, which may impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will search for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
The first step in an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. 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 wood-framed windows, common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks in windows made of wood can be fixed with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is usually best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to handle more complicated issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a new system can assist in bringing the structure in line with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can be detected with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good condition for its future use. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the efficiency of your home. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This can result in injuries, property damage and even a loss of air conditioning or heat.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and functioning well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and shut. If the problem persists it could be because the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming, which can make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these problems by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before re-cording them.
Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to prevent water ingress, rot and other problems that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.