The History Of Glazing Repairs In 10 Milestones
Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.
It can be difficult to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most common problems that require fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that protect, insulate and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, but the reality is they may need repair or replacement at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.
One of the most obvious signs that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to have your window seals fixed by a professional.
A failing seal can also 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 xenon or argon, which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keep the heat inside the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will increase.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration 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 damaging your insulation.
Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance is the best way to prevent window seals from being damaged. 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 since it could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window could fall and break further windows, or create drafts and even insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken could also pose a risk for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. In addition to being a risk for safety, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and may cause additional damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
When a windowpane cracks the first step is to seal it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the new replacement window.
After determining the window's opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that is too small could fall out of the frame, or allow drafts get in.
Once you've made sure the new pane is secured by a second cord of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure it's evenly distributed around the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.
Structural Problems
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security, performance, and compliance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. The inspector will also examine the gaskets and sealants made of rubber to ensure they have been properly installed and aren't leaky.
Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. double glazing repairs 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 down the road.
Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other strains. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.
Another common problem is warping. This can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the system's appearance, energy efficiency and safety. A glass inspector will check for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It is also a good idea to use a harness and ladder to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sticking sashes can often be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite oil. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to tackle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.
Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a new system can help bring the existing structure into conformance with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many sash window problems. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be identified by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good order for its future use. The most common problems are easily rectified and don't require replacement.
Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a hassle and also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of heat or cool air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking good and working well. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make it easier to open and shut. If the issue persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying a sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. These can often be fixed by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to avoid water ingress and rot as well as other problems that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.