Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can boost the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is operating as efficiently as possible, improving its overall performance.
However, it can be tricky to know whether the issue you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time however, they might require repair or replacement at some point. The good news is that there are many options for repairs according to your budget and timeline.
One of the most frequent signs that your window seals aren't working is fogging in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by a damaged seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through and create condensation. While you can try a few quick-fixes to defog your windows, such as using a steamer or window putty, the most efficient solution is to repair your window seals by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
As time passes rubber gaskets start to degrade due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in the growth of mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best method to avoid window seals falling apart. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it could damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create a draft, or even allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken can also be dangerous to anyone who comes in contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass is difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash, and adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to board it up with a cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly important for upper-story windows.
double glazing repair Chatham , cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It's important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and check for a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A new glass pane that's too huge can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small could fall from the frame or allow drafts into your home.
After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with the new pane. When dry, 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 systems is crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and that they are not leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These problems can be very hazardous and could result in serious damage over time. It is important to fix any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. The underlying causes of these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws and poor installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which can affect the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and suggests repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also an excellent idea to wear a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for windows made of wood include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on wooden window panes, but damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones who handle more complicated issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash elements.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the savings in energy consumption as well as the improved comfort for the residents could allow the initial investment to be recouped. A replacement system can also help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily diagnosed and addressed through an inspection. A professional window assessment can detect things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good condition for its future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and don't need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and cause injuries, property damage or loss of cool air or heat.
Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more quickly. If the issue persists it could mean that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They then expand and shrink, which could cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood and by applying a sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash problems include a damaged cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These all make it difficult to open and shut windows for sash. A carpenter can fix these issues by removing the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.