Glazing Repairs

Repairing your glazing correctly can boost the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.

However, it isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that must be fixed:

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an important part of your glazing system. They secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last for a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the fact is that they will have to be replaced at some moment. The good news is that there are many options for repairs depending on your budget and timeframe.

Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent signs 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 get in, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer or window putty, the most effective solution is to have your window seals repaired by an expert.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulation 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 keeps the heat in the house. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.

Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to deteriorate due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to inadequate care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not taken care of. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.

The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it can damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your window that is insulated, since this could invalidate the warranty and damage 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 problem that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window may fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly water or insects to infiltrate your home. A broken pane of glass can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that is shattering is not just a safety risk, but it can be a challenge to remove, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as adjacent surfaces.

If a window doctor pane breaks, the first step is to tape it up using the cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows with higher levels.

Next, repairmywindowsanddoors take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean all the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

It's important to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted however if you're looking for security glass or energy-efficient, it will likely need to be cut specifically to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for 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 a flush fit to the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small may be thrown out of the frame or let drafts get in.

Once you've made sure the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers around the perimeter of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match the window.

Structural Issues

The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing system are crucial to the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe destruction over time. It is crucial to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can to avoid costly repairs 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 can be damaging and costly. The main causes for the failures are inadequate construction, design mistakes and inadequate installation.

Another common problem is warping, which can cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency and security. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if required.

The first step in an inspection of the glazing is to ensure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Wearing gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety equipment. It is also recommended to use a ladder and harness to access higher or more difficult-to-access areas.

For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be fixed with an epoxy that is two-part, but damaged or rotted wood is generally recommended replacement. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.

The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings and the increased comfort of people living in the structure could let the initial investment be paid back. Additionally, a replacement system can help bring the current structure into compliance to more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of sash window problems. A professional window inspection can identify things like wood that is rotting, paintwork damage and broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good order to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most frequent issues aren't as serious and don't require replacement.

Issues like a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a source of frustration and also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also risky when windows suddenly snap shut, causing injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.

Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking good and operating properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant can help them to open and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists, it could be an indication that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.

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

Other sash problems include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and close windows in sash. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged components, then reconnecting them.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.