Glazing Repairs
Making repairs to your glazing correctly will increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your door or window is operating as well as possible, improving its overall performance.
However, it isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems that require fixing:.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They are used to secure, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time, however, they may need repair or replacement at some moment. There are a variety of options to repair them, based on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is one of the most frequent signs that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is best to get your window seals repaired by a professional.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon which help the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your energy bills will also rise.
As time passes, rubber gaskets will begin to degrade due to age and exposure. The degrading process is accelerated by poor treatment or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can 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 cause a shabby appearance and damaging your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best method to avoid window seals breaking down. For instance, you should avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows as it can 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 damage 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 common issue 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 enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard, shattered glass can be difficult to remove and could cause additional damage to frames, sash, and adjacent surfaces.
The first step to take when a window is damaged is to seal it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and other debris out of the house until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for upper-story windows.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, remove old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for new window.
After determining the window's opening, it's essential to ensure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes 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 install your new glass, be sure to put it in the frame. Make sure that it's in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too huge could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small could fall off the frame and let drafts enter your home.
Once the new pane has been secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. double glazing repairs Swanley with your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. After the compound has dried, paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing system are essential for the safety, compliance, and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors and supports to determine whether they are corroded damaged or misaligned. He or she also checks the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they're installed correctly and that they are not leaky.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames as well as walls that are sagging. These issues are risky and could lead to severe damage over time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs later on.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes and improper installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repair measures if necessary.
Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It's also an excellent idea to wear a ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as major sash or frame parts are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.
Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and increased quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure into conformity with the stricter requirements of building codes, such as insulated glass and wind resistance to load.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and resolve a number of problems with sash windows. A professional assessment of the window can detect things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good order for future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and don't require replacement.
Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam closed. This can result in injuries, property damage and a loss of heat or air conditioning.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can help them to open and close more quickly. If the issue persists it could mean that the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and are affected by changing humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and by regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged lock for sash, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and reconnect them.
Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to protect the glass from water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.