Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be addressed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your window system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and could require repair or replacement, the fact is that they'll need to be replaced at some moment. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent signs that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows may be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows water to get in and create condensation. Although you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to repair 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 keep heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also increase.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade over time due to exposure and aging. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if it is not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method 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 cautious when using chemical such as paint strippers, as they can damage sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass within a window could fall and cause further windows to break, or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk however, it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. window repair Potters Bar is especially important for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After determining the window's opening, it's essential to ensure the new replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it might need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in your glass, take care to place it into the frame. Make sure it is flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts enter.
After the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security performance, performance, and conformity of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector also examines the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they're installed correctly and aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to serious damage over time. It is essential to fix any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other strains. If these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors or improper installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency and safety. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
The first step of an inspection of the glazing is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It's also a good idea to use a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotten wood is typically better replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A new system could assist in bringing an existing structure into line with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed through an inspection. A professional assessment of the window can identify things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good condition for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and can affect the efficiency of your home. It's also risky if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is essential 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. If the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged the sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these issues by taking off the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.
Stained glass windows may be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to avoid water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that may arise when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.