Glazing Repairs

The correct repair of your double glazing window repairs can boost the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It can be tricky to know what the issue you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems that require repair:.

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system that protect, insulate and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require double glaze repair or replacement, the fact is that they will have to be replaced at some point. The good news is there are several options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.

Fogging inside your double Glaze repair paned insulated glass unit is among the most common indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows could be the result of a damaged seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows water to get in and create condensation. You can use a steamer to remove the fog from your windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended to fix your window seals by an expert.

A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat in the home. The benefits of the IGU's insulation will be lost when the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.

As time passes rubber gaskets begin to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated due to improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and weakening the insulation.

The best way to prevent a breakdown of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it could damage the seal. Don't apply a reflective film to your window with insulation as this could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Also, be cautious 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 cracked pane of glass within a window could fall and cause other windows to break, or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it, including children or pets. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.

When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to board 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 can replace the glass. This is particularly important for windows with higher levels.

Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

After measuring the window's opening, it is important to ensure the new replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to need to be made specifically for the frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.

When you're ready to install the glass you just bought, insert it carefully into the frame and make sure it's a flush fit to the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood around it, while one that's too small could fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure to the frame, wrap 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 to ensure it is even around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly double glazed window repair compound and frame to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is essential to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also check the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they're installed correctly and aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural problems that need to be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe damage with time. It is important to fix any structural issues as quickly as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors, and poor installation.

Warping can also cause distortion or deformed panels, which could 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.

Glazing inspections should start by ensuring that the work area is free of any obstructions and that all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. It is also an excellent idea to wear the ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas.

Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be fixed with two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotted wood is typically best replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them and 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.

The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually greater than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for residents could make it possible for the initial investment to be returned. A replacement system may assist in bringing an existing structure in compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulated glass and wind resistance to load.

Sash Issues

Many sash window issues may be easily diagnosed and addressed by an inspection. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass are all picked up by a professional window assessment, ensuring the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise are easily rectified and don't require replacement.

Issues like a sash that won't close or open can be annoying and impact the efficiency of your home. Your windows could also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can cause injuries, property damage and even a loss of air conditioning or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and close. If the issue persists it could mean that the balances aren't functioning properly or something is wrong with the sash.

Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and be affected by changes in humidity levels. This causes them to swell and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a tight seal on the wood, and applying regularly paint or a sash sealer to shield against moisture.

Other sash issues include a broken cord displacement, lock and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and shut windows in sash. They can be repaired by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and replace them with a new cord.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is crucial to keep their condition to avoid water ingress and rot as well as other problems that may arise when the paint begins to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.