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Glazing Repairs

Correctly repairing your glass can increase the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most common problems that require repair:.

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and protect windows from external air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and could require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will have to be replaced at some time. There are several options available for repair, depending on your budget.

One of the most common indications that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. While you can try some 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.





A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas like xenon and argon, which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.

As time passes rubber gaskets begin to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. The process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water intrusion into the building envelope, resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and cause damage to the appearance of the building and compromising insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance is the best way to avoid window seals falling apart. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows as it can be able to penetrate the sash and damage the seal. Also, don't add a reflective window film to your insulated glass, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be cautious when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a problem that needs immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window may fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken can be a danger to anyone who comes in contact with it, including pets or children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass is difficult to remove and may result in additional damage to frames, sash, and the surfaces that are adjacent to it.

When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to board it up with a cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows that are higher up.

Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points from the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

After determining the window's opening, it's essential to make sure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes available however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might need to be cut to fit your frame. To avoid mistakes take a measurement of the window opening and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.

Once you're ready to install your new glass, be sure to place it into the frame. Make sure that it's perfectly with the rabbets. A new glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small can be thrown off the frame or let drafts in 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 seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural strength of curtain wall frameworks and systems for framing is vital to the security and performance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, deteriorated, or misaligned. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been properly installed and aren't leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and can lead to serious destruction over time. It is important to address any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. If 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 could cause deformed or distorted glass panels, which can impact the system's appearance, energy efficiency, and safety. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.

The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the work area is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.

double glazing repair for wooden windows include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in wooden window panes, but severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes that are stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones who handle more complicated issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash elements.

The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort for people living in the structure could let the initial investment be returned. In addition, a new system could help bring the structure in line with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. Things like rotting timber, damage to paintwork and broken glass are all picked up through a professional window inspection to ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Fortunately, the most common problems are less serious and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and could also impact your home's energy efficiency. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly snap shut and cause injuries, property damage or loss of cool air or heat.

Regular maintenance is required to keep sliding sash windows looking good and working well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more easily. If the problem continues, it could indicate that the balances aren't functioning correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.

Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and can be affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to get stuck or trapped 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 issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and shut sash windows. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, repair or replace 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 important to keep them in good condition to protect the glass from water infiltration and rot that can occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.