Glazing Repairs
The correct repair of your glazing will increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.
However, it can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional attention. Here are some of the most frequent issues that need fixing:.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last for a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will have to be replaced at some point. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.
Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is one of the most commonly reported 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 get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by a professional.
A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon or xenon that assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will rise.
Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. window repair Gravesend can lead to mold and mildew if not addressed. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.
The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows since it can damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, since it could invalidate the warranty and damage the sealant material. Finally, be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a common issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could fall and cause other windows to break or create drafts, or allow water or insects into your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially pets or children. Glass that is shattering is not just an hazard to safety, but it can also be difficult to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.
The first thing to do when a window has 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 your house until you can replace your glass. This method is particularly crucial for windows that are higher up.
Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With a putty or pliers, pry old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for new window.
It is important to measure the window opening and ensure that the replacement is the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might require cutting to fit your frame. To avoid any mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.
When you're ready to install the new glass, place it in the frame with care and check for an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too huge can cause a cloud to form and swell on the surrounding wood, while one that's too small may fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.
Once you've made sure the new pane is secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers' around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it and the frame to match your window.
Structural Issues
The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial for the safety, compliance, and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional examines fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. The inspector will also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaking.
The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues are risky and could cause serious damage over time. It is important to take care of any structural issues as fast as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to resist wind loads and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. The underlying causes of the failures are poor construction, design errors and poor installation.
Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which can affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for signs of warping and suggest repair measures if necessary.
The first step in a glazing inspection is to make sure that the work area is free of obstructions and that employees are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.
Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks in wooden window panes can often be fixed with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotted wood is usually better replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be removed by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to handle more complex issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or the major frame or sash parts.
Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased comfort of the occupants could eventually pay for the initial investment. A new system could also help bring an existing structure into compliance with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.
Sash Issues
Visual inspections can help identify and address many sash window problems. A professional window inspection can identify things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and do not need replacement.
Issues like a sash window that won't open or close can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can result in injuries, property damage and the loss of heat or air conditioning.
Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your sash windows and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more easily. However, if the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't functioning properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.
Wooden window sashes absorb water over time, and are affected when humidity levels change. They then expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an airtight seal around the wood and by applying a 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 for sash. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who can take off the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and replace them with a new cord.
It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is crucial to keep them in good condition to prevent water ingress and rot, as well as other issues that can occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.