Why Glazing Repairs Should Be Your Next Big Obsession
Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. It also ensures that your door or window is operating as well as possible, improving its overall efficiency.
It can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be fixed:
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They are used to secure the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are a variety of options to repair them, based on your budget.
One of the most common signs that the window seals in your home are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows could be the result of the seal being damaged between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow water to get in and create condensation. While you can try some quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer or applying window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced by a professional.
A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon and xenon, which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. When double glazing repair near me fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can lead to mold and mildew if not dealt with. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to prevent window seals from being damaged. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it can damage the seal. Do not apply reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers because they can harm sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common problem that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window can fall and break other windows or cause a draft and possibly water or insects to get into your home. A glass pane that is broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety but can also be difficult to remove and cause further damage to frames and sash as well as other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross patch of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows that are higher up.
Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the frame 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 is important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes on hand however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid making mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass, put it with care into the frame and check for an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small can fall out of the frame or let drafts get in.
After the new pane has been secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and aren't leaking.
Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural problems that need to be addressed. These problems can be very hazardous and could result in severe damage in the future. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs could be destructive and costly. The underlying causes of these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws and inadequate installation.
Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which could impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend 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. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It's also an excellent idea to wear the ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sticking sashes can often be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. More stubborn problems like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window companies.
Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A new system could help bring an existing structure in conformity with the stricter requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window problems can be identified and resolved by an examination. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can all be picked up by a professional window assessment to ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues are less severe and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Issues like a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also risky when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and close. If the problem persists it could be because the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an encapsulated seal around the wood and by applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to restore their original appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to stop it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.