Glazing Repairs
Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. It also ensures that your door or window is operating as efficiently as it can, increasing its overall efficiency.
It can be difficult to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be addressed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are a crucial part of your glazing system that secure, insulate, and seal windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, however, they might require repair or replacement at some moment. The good news is there are several options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.
Fogging in your double-paned IGU is one of the most common indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. You can use a steamer to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's recommended to fix your window seals by an experienced professional.
In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the window panes, a faulty seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with an inert gas like argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain warm within the house. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water intrusion into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and damaging your insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from being damaged. For instance, do not use high-pressure washers to clean your windows because it could get into the sash, and damage the seal. Do not add a reflective film to your window with insulation since this could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers because they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a concern that needs immediate attention. A broken pane in a window can fall and cause other windows to break or cause drafts, or let insects or water into your home. A broken pane of glass 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 remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces.
When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to seal it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.
Next, take precautions by putting on thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, pry out old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass is removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare them for a new replacement window.
After measuring the window's opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.
When you're ready for installing the glass you just bought, insert it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the surrounding wood, while one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.
Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. After the compound has dried paint it and the frame to match the window.
Structural Problems
The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial for the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see if they are corroded, damaged, or misaligned. The inspector will also check the sealants and rubber gaskets to ensure they have been properly installed and are not leaking.
Structural issues that need to be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe destruction over time. It is important to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. If these components fail, the resulting water intrusion could be destructive and costly. The main causes for these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws, and inadequate installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, energy efficiency and safety. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repairs steps if required.
The first step of an inspection of glazing is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. It is also an excellent idea to wear a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and major frame or sash parts are usually left to aluminum window manufacturers.
Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is 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 may assist in bringing an existing structure into compliance with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help to identify and address many issues with sash windows. Things like rotting wood, damage to paintwork and broken glass can all be picked up through a professional window inspection, ensuring the window is in good condition for future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.
Problems such as a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. It's also risky when windows suddenly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage, and loss of cool air or heat.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows looking nice and working well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more easily. However, if the issue 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 take in moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They then expand and shrink, which can result in them becoming stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to protect against moisture.
Other sash issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. window repair Berkhamsted of these make it difficult to open and shut windows in sash. A carpenter can solve these issues by taking off the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged components, then reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows may be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to guard against water infiltration and rot that could occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.