Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window can boost your home's value. It will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.
It can be a challenge to know if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require repair:.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential component of your window system. They protect, 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. There are several options available to repair them, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is best to fix your window seals by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon that aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
As time passes, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can result in mold and mildew if not taken care of. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. For instance, you should avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, because it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your insulated window, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Also, be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, since they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common issue that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass in a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break, or create a draft, or even allow water or insects 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 whitstable Double Glazing Repairs to being a risk for safety, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
The first thing to do when a windowpane is cracked is to tape it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace your glass. This is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready to install your new glass, carefully put it in the frame. Check that it fits flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts enter.
Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing system are crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These issues are risky and could lead to severe damage with time. It is essential to address any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other stresses. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. The root causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs steps if required.
The first step of a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that employees are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also recommended to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite oil. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to tackle more complicated issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves 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 new system could assist in bringing an existing structure in conformity with the stricter requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed by an examination. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can be detected with a professional assessment of the window, ensuring the window is in good condition for its future use. The most common problems can be easily fixed and don't need replacement.
Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and impact the energy efficiency of your home. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage and loss of cool air or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more easily. However, if the problem persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't functioning 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 humidity levels. This causes them swell and shrink, which could result in them becoming stuck or encased within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood and by applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems that could occur are a damaged lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. A carpenter can solve these problems by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, before reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to prevent water intrusion, rot and other problems that may occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.