Glazing Repairs
Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.
It can be difficult to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems that require fixing:.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are a crucial element of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will need to be replaced at some time. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
One of the most frequent indications that your window seals aren't working is fogging in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows could be the result of an unsound seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you have your window seals fixed by an expert.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas such as argon or xenon which aids the IGU in preventing thermal transfer and retain heat within the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.
Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time because of exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows as it can damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Finally, be careful when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, as they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window can fall and break further windows or cause drafts and even insects or water to enter your home. A broken glass pane could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, particularly children or pets. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk but can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a windowpane is damaged is to seal it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of your house until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.
Take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Using a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, wash the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window opening, it's important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes on hand however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass you just bought, insert it with care into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A new glass pane that's too huge can swell and cloud the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small may fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap 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, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. After drying paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Problems
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is essential for the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. double glazing West Bromwich examines the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaky.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as sagging walls. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious destruction over time. It is important that you address any structural problems as soon as you can so that you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to resist winds and other strains. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion can be costly and damaging. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes, and improper installation.
Another common problem is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, energy efficiency, and safety. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repairs if required.
The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. It is also a good idea to use the ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more complicated issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.
Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a new system can assist in bringing the current structure into compliance with the more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of sash window problems. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be detected through a professional window inspection and ensure that the window is in good condition for future use. The most frequent issues are easily rectified and don't require replacement.
Problems such as a sash that won't close or open could be frustrating and can affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also a risk when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.
Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make it easier to open and close. However, if the problem persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time, and are affected by changes in humidity. This causes them to swell and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close sash windows. These can often be fixed by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and reconnect them.
It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It's important to keep them in good shape to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is another method to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.