Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your window or door is working as well as it can, increasing its overall performance.
However, it isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of most frequent problems that require to be fixed:
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They are used to secure the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. Although they are designed to last a long time and could require repair or replacement, the truth is that they'll need to be replaced at some time. There are several options available for repair, based on your budget.
Fogging inside your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most frequent indications 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 get in, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, for instance using a steamer or applying window putty, the most effective solution is to repair your window seals by an expert.
In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon, which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and maintain heat within the home. When the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be diminished and your energy costs will rise.
Over time rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The process is accelerated by poor maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if it is not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.
Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from breaking down. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass since it could invalidate the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemical products, such as paint strippers, as they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can also be dangerous for anyone who comes in contact with it, particularly pets or children. In addition to being a risk for safety broken glass can be difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.
The first thing to do when a windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep rain, bugs and other debris out of the house until you can replace the glass. This method is particularly important for windows that are higher up.
Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.
It is essential to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is of the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however if energy-efficient or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid committing mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the new pane.
When double glazing repairs Carshalton to install the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too large can cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small can fall out of the frame or allow drafts in.
After the new pane is secured, you can roll another 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 it's level with the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.
Structural Issues
The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety performance, performance, and conformity of the glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional examines anchor points, fasteners, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. He or she also checks the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are properly installed and aren't leaky.
Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These problems are dangerous and could lead to severe damage over time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as fast as possible to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads and other strains. When these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and safety. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repairs if needed.
The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. It's also a good idea to use a harness and ladder to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.
Common repairs for windows made of wood include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.
The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, but the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of occupants may let the initial investment be recouped. A replacement system may help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Many sash window problems can be easily diagnosed and addressed by an inspection. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can be detected with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good order for future use. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and don't need replacement.
Problems like a sash windows that isn't able to open or close can be a source of frustration and can also affect your home's energy efficiency. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of cool or warm air.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and working properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more quickly. If the problem persists it could be because the balances don't work properly or there is a problem with the sash.
Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time and can be affected when humidity levels change. This causes them to expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.
Other sash issues that can arise include a faulty lock for sash cord displacement, nail jamming that can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can fix these problems by removing the sash, fixing or replacing damaged parts, before reconnecting them.
Stained glass windows can be stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to guard against water ingress and rot which may occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is another method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.