Glazing Repairs The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors. It isn't always easy to determine whether the problem you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require fixing:. Seals that have been damaged Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They protect windows, insulate them and seal them against outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some time. There are many options for repair, depending on your budget. One of the most frequent indicators that your window seals aren't working is a fogging issue in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Steamers are a great option to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by a professional. In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep heat in the house. Once the window seal fails, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise. Over time rubber gaskets start to degrade due to aging and exposure. The degradation is accelerated by poor care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mold and mildew if not taken care of. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation. Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance are the best ways to avoid window seals being damaged. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it can damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Also, be cautious when using chemical products, such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail. Broken Glass Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could fall and cause further windows to break, or create a draft, or even allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a safety risk, but it can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces. The first step to take when a windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and debris out of the house until you can replace the glass. This is especially important for upper-story window. Take precautions by putting on thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty knife or pliers, cut out old glazing points, or the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window. After measuring the window's opening, it's essential to ensure that the replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid making mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane. When you are ready to put in your new glass, be sure to put it in the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small could fall out of the frame or allow drafts get in. Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure by a second 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 to ensure it's level with 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 crucial to the safety and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, degraded, or misaligned. He or she will also examine the gaskets and sealants to make sure they have been properly installed and aren't leaking. Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious damage with time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as soon as possible so that you avoid costly repairs in the future. Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to resist winds and other strains. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and improper installation. Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which can impact the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs actions if necessary. Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places. Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged 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 freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms and major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers. Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and enhanced occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system could help bring the current structure into compliance with more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance. Sash Issues Many sash window issues may be easily identified and dealt with by an examination. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be picked up through a professional window inspection to ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Fortunately, the most common issues are less severe and don't necessarily necessitate replacement. Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. double glazing repairs can cause injuries, property damage and the loss of heat or air conditioning. Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and operating properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying a lubricant can make them easier to open and shut. If the problem persists it could mean that the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash. Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time, and are affected by changes in humidity. This causes them to expand and shrink, which could cause them to get stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by applying an sash sealer or paint to guard against moisture. Other sash problems that could be caused by a defective the sash lock cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming that can make windows more difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by carpenters who will take out the sash, repair or replace any damaged parts and re-cord them. Stained glass windows can be stained again to improve their appearance. It is important to maintain them in good shape to prevent water ingress and rot as well as other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing wood decay.
double glazing repairs
