Glazing Repairs

Making repairs to your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It can be a challenge to know if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair double glazing. Here are some of most common problems that need to be addressed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an important part of your glazing system. They are used to secure, insulate and seal windows against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last for a long time and could require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will need to be replaced at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.

One of the most obvious indicators that your window seals are failing is fogging in the double glazed window Repair pane of your IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through and cause condensation. Steamers are a great option to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended that you have your window seals fixed by an expert.

A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon which helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and keep heat within the home. If the window seal is damaged, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will increase.

Over time rubber gaskets start to degrade due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best method to stop window seals from falling apart. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, since it could get into the sash and cause damage to the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers as they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a hazard that needs immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window could fall and break windows or cause a draft and possibly even water or insects to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that is broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a safety risk however, it can also be difficult to get rid of and can cause further damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.

When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of ducttape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, rain, and debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.

Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass is removed, wash the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

It's important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be custom cut to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.

Once you're ready to install your new glass, carefully place it into the frame. Check that it fits in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small can be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts get in.

Once you've made sure the new pane is secure, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it is even around the new pane. After drying paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety, performance, and compliance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. He or she will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaking.

Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems are dangerous and could cause serious damage over time. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can, to avoid costly repairs double glazed windows down the road.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to withstand winds, and other stresses. 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.

Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which may impact the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.

Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is free of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. It is also an excellent idea to wear a ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.

Common repairs double glazed windows for wood-framed windows include loose or missing hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be repaired with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is typically best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.

Replacing an existing curtain wall system typically involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system can also help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of sash window problems. A professional window inspection can detect things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, assuring that the window is in good shape for its future use. Most of the problems that arise can be easily fixed and do not require replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a nuisance and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This can result in injuries, property damage and a loss of air conditioning or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.

Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and be affected by changing levels of humidity. This causes them to expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood and by regularly applying a sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.

Other sash issues that can arise include a faulty lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming, double Glazed window repair which can make windows more difficult to open and double glazed window Repair close. A carpenter can solve these problems by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged components, then reconnecting them.

Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to prevent water intrusion and rot, as well as other issues that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to stop it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing decay of the wood.