Glazing Repairs

The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.

However, it isn't always easy to determine whether the problem you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that must be addressed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair double glazing window or replacement, the reality is that they'll need to be replaced at some moment. The good news is that there are several options for repair double glazing windows according to your budget and timeline.

Fogging in your Double Glaze Repair Near Me-paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows could be the result of an unsound seal between two glass panes of your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through and create condensation. Steamers are a great option to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended to have your window seals fixed by an expert.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.

Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to age and exposure. The degradation can be accelerated by insufficient maintenance or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope, resulting in mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.

The best way to prevent the loss of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash, and damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A broken pane in a window may fall and break further windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety, but it can be a challenge to remove and cause further damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.

If a window is cracked, the first step is to tape it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is especially crucial for repairing double glazed windows with higher levels.

Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that pin glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

After measuring the window opening, it's important to make sure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid a mistake take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.

When you are ready to put in your new glass, carefully place it into the frame. Make sure that it's in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small may fall out of the frame, or allow drafts in.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure to the frame, wrap another cord of glaziers' compound around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security and performance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration. They also look for misalignment. The inspector will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber, to ensure that they have been properly installed and are not leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could cause serious damage with time. It is important to address any structural issues as fast as possible to avoid costly repairs down the road.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to resist wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail, the water intrusion that occurs can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and poor installation.

Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repairs if required.

The first step of a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.

For windows made of wood, the most common double glazed repairs involve loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones who handle more complex issues such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.

Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a new system could help bring the existing structure into conformance with more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window issues may be easily diagnosed and addressed through an examination. Things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass can all be detected through a professional window inspection, ensuring the window is in good condition for its future use. Luckily, the most common issues are less severe and don't require replacement.

Problems such as the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and impact the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be dangerous if they suddenly close closed. This could result in injuries, property damage and the loss of heat or air conditioning.

Sliding sash 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 easily. However, if the issue persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself.

Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. This causes them to expand and shrink, which could cause them to get stuck or trapped in the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged the sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged components, and then reconnect them.

It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to keep them in good condition to guard against water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.