Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing will increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is operating as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.
It can be difficult to determine if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. Although they are designed to last for a long time and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some moment. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned IGU is among the most frequent signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture be absorbed, 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 an expert.
A leaky seal can cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon which help the IGU to resist heat transfer and keeps the heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. The process can be accelerated by poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not taken care of. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from falling apart. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window with insulation since this could invalidate the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers as they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A shattered pane in 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 is broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk but can also be difficult to remove, and cause additional damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.
The first step to take when a windowpane is cracked is to tape it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With double glazing repairs Stevenage or pliers, pry out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is important to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is the exact right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it may need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid a mistake take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it in the frame with care and ensure it's a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small can fall out of the frame or allow drafts enter.
Once you've made sure the new pane is securely secured by a second cord of glaziers' compound around the edges of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's even around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and aren't leaky.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to severe damage over the course of time. It is important that you fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other strains. When these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors or improper installation.
Another issue that is common is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the area of work is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotten wood should be replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and improved comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass are all identified with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good order to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and don't require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a hassle and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This could result in injuries, property damage and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding windows require 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. However, if the problem persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changes in levels of humidity. This causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that may arise include a faulty sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows for sash difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to protect the glass from water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is another option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.