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Glazing Repairs Correctly repairing your glass will increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors. It can be a challenge to know if the issue you are experiencing requires professional help. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be fixed: Seals that have been damaged Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They are used to secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they might require repair or replacement at some point. The good news is there are many options for repairs in accordance with your budget and timeframe. One of the most common signs that your window seals are failing is fogging in the double pane of your IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows may be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows moisture to enter the IGU and create condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to have your window seals fixed by an expert. double glazing repair near me could cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, like xenon and argon which help the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep heat in the house. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefit of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will increase. Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated through improper care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this may cause water infiltration into the building envelope resulting in the growth of 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 avoid a breakdown of window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it can damage the seal. Also, avoid adding a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can damage sealant and cause failure. Broken Glass Broken glass is a common issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break, or create drafts, or allow water or insects into 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. Glass that has been broken is not just an hazard to safety but can be a challenge to remove and can cause further damage to sash and frames and other surfaces. The first step to take when a window is cracked is to tape it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of the home until you are able to replace your 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, pry old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass is removed, clean the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window. It is essential to measure the window's opening and ensure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert however if you're looking for energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid making mistakes take a measurement of your window's opening and subtract 1/8 to ¼ inches from the new pane. When you're ready to install the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and ensure it's a flush fit with the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that is too big could cause the wood to swell and a pane that's too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts in. Once the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound with your finger to ensure it's level with the new pane. When dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window. Structural Problems The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is essential to the safety, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, damaged, or misaligned. He or she will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been installed correctly and aren't leaky. Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe damage with time. It is essential to take care of any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs down the road. Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that results could be destructive and costly. The underlying causes of the failures are poor construction, design flaws and poor installation. Another common problem is warping, which can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency, and security. A glazing inspector will search for warping and recommend repairs if needed. Glazing inspections should start by making sure that the area of work is free of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests form part of the safety gear. It's also a good idea to use the ladder and harness for accessing higher or harder-to-reach areas. Common repairs for wooden windows are missing or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be fixed with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is typically better replaced. Sashes that stick can be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms and major frame or sash parts are usually left to aluminum window companies. Replacing an existing curtain wall system usually involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation options, however the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system could help bring the current structure into compliance with the more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance. Sash Issues Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved by an inspection. Things like rotting timber and paintwork damage as well as broken glass are all detected through a professional window inspection to ensure that the window is in good shape for its future use. Fortunately, the most common issues are less severe and don't require replacement. Problems like a sash windows that won't open or close can be a source of frustration and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Your windows could also be risky if they suddenly snap shut. This can cause injuries, property damage and a loss of heat or air conditioning. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and operating properly. Cleaning your sash windows and applying a lubricant spray can help them to open and close more quickly. If the problem persists, it could indicate that the balances aren't functioning properly or there is a problem with the sash. Wooden window sashes take in moisture over time and can be affected by changes in humidity. They then expand and shrink, which could cause them become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal around the wood and by applying a sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture. Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming which all make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by taking off the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before re-cording them. Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It is important to maintain their condition to avoid water ingress, rot and other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to keep it from leaking water into the surrounding timber, causing wood decay.