Why Glazing Repairs May Be More Risky Than You Thought

Glazing Repairs Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors. It isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that need fixing:. Seals that are damaged Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system that protect, insulate and seal windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. The good news is that there are several options for repair according to your budget and timeframe. Fogging inside your double paned IGU is one of the most commonly reported indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to have your window seals fixed by a professional. A failing seal can also cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keep the heat in the house. If the window seal is damaged, the insulating benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase. Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time because of exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated through inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising insulation. The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it can cause damage to the seal. Do not add reflective films to your window that is insulated, since this could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical such as paint strippers, as they can damage sealant and cause failure. Broken Glass Broken glass is a concern that requires immediate attention. A glass pane that has broken in a window could fall and break other windows or cause drafts and possibly water or insects to enter your home. A broken glass pane can be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it, including pets or children. Glass that has been broken is not just a risk to safety but can also be difficult to get rid of and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces. When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to tape it up with a cross-patch of ducttape to stop the glass from shattering further and keep bugs, rain 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. Wear thick, durable gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points out of the frame recesses. After the glass is removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window. It is important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is of the proper size. window repair Weybridge will have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to ΒΌ inches for the new pane. When you're ready for installing the new glass, place it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too huge could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small may be thrown off the frame or allow drafts into your home. After the new pane is secured, you can wrap another cord of glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. Once 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 essential to the safety, performance, and compliance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. The inspector will also check the gaskets and sealants, to ensure that they have been properly installed and aren't leaking. Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could cause serious damage with time. It is important that you fix any structural issues as soon as you can in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line. Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to be able to withstand winds and other strains. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. The underlying causes of these failures are due to poor construction, design flaws and poor installation. Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repairs if needed. Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of any obstructions and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places. Common repairs for windows made of wood include loose or missing hardware. A small crack in wooden window panes can often be repaired with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotten wood is typically recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window companies. Replacing a curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system can assist in bringing the structure in line to more strict building codes for insulated glazing and wind load resistance. Sash Issues Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved through an examination. A professional window assessment can detect things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good order for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and do not necessarily require replacement. Problems such as the sash not closing 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 even a loss of air conditioning or heat. Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. If the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself. Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and are affected by changes in humidity. They can expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by ensuring a good seal on the wood and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to shield against moisture. Other sash issues that may be caused by a defective lock for sash cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can solve these problems by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, and then reconnecting them. Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It's important to keep them in good shape to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different way to stop it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.