Glazing Repairs
The right repair of your window will increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your window or door is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are an important part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time, however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some time. The good news is that there are a variety of options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.
One of the most common indicators that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you get your window seals repaired by a professional.
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 keep heat in the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.
Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to aging and exposure. The process can be accelerated by improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. Putney double glazing repair can lead to mildew and mold if not addressed. This can eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to prevent window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Do not add reflective film to your insulated window, since this could invalidate the guarantee and damage the sealant. Also, be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a hazard that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and even insects or water to get into your home. A broken pane of glass can pose danger to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes children and pets. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause further damage to frames, sash, and other surfaces.
If a window is cracked the first step is to board it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is especially crucial for windows with higher levels.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers, pry old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.
It is important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be cut specifically to fit your frame. To avoid committing mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
Once you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to put it in the frame. Make sure that it's in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small may fall out of the frame or let drafts in.
After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers' around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring 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 system are crucial for the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to severe damage over the course of time. It is important to fix any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to be able to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. When these components fail the water intrusion that occurs can be costly and damaging. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Another issue that is common is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and security. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and suggests repair measures if needed.
Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the work area is clear of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. It is also a good idea to use a harness and ladder to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. A small crack in windows made of wood can be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is usually better replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms and major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the savings in energy consumption as well as the increased comfort of occupants may let the initial investment be returned. In addition, a replacement system could help bring the existing structure into conformance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with by a visual inspection. A professional window inspection can identify things like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, assuring that the window is in good condition for its future use. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and don't need replacement.
Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a hassle and also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also dangerous if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage, and loss of cool air or heat.
Sliding windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more quickly. If the problem continues, it could indicate that the balances aren't functioning properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changes in humidity levels. 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 regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.
Other sash issues include a broken lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged components, and then reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can be re-stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to prevent water intrusion and rot as well as other problems that may arise when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another way to stop it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.