Notes

Why Glazing Repairs Is More Dangerous Than You Thought
Glazing Repairs

Repairing your glazing correctly can increase the value of your home. This can also increase the efficiency of your window or doors.

It can be difficult to know if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems that require repair:.

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an essential component of your window system. They secure, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long period of time, but the reality is they may need repair or replacement at some moment. There are a variety of options for repair depending on your budget and timeframe.

One of the most obvious indications that the window seals in your home are failing is a fogging issue in the double pane of your IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended to get your window seals repaired by an experienced professional.


A leaky seal could cause your windows' insulation value to decrease. The space between your two panes is filled by inert gas like argon or xenon which aids the IGU in preventing thermal 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.

Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, destroying the appearance and weakening insulation.

The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, avoid using high-pressure washers to clean your windows since it could work its way into the sash and cause damage to 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. Also, be cautious when using chemicals, such as paint strippers because they could damage the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a clear issue that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window could fall and break windows or cause a draft and even insects or water to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that is broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This includes pets and children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk however, it can be a challenge to remove and cause further damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.

If a window is cracked, the first step is to board it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is particularly important for upper-story window.

Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also wear eye protection. With a putty or pliers remove the old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.

It is important to measure the opening of your window and make sure that the replacement is the proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be custom cut for the frame. To avoid mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches to fit the new pane.

Once you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to place it in the frame. Make sure it is flush with the rabbets. A glass pane too large could cause the wood to expand and a pane that is too small could be thrown out of the frame, or allow drafts in.

After the new pane is secured, you can wrap another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it's even around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Problems

The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial to the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are installed correctly and that they are not leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. 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 you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to be able to withstand the forces of wind and other stress. When these components fail the water intrusion that results could be destructive and costly. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and inadequate installation.

Another common problem is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and safety. A glass inspector will check for warping and recommend repairs if needed.

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

For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve missing or loose hardware. A few minor cracks on window frames made of wood can be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotted wood is generally best replaced. Sticking sashes can often be freed from their tracks by sanding and applying graphite lubricant. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones to handle more complicated issues, such as replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components.

Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. In addition, a new system could help bring the structure in line with the more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window problems can be easily diagnosed and addressed through an examination. A professional window inspection will reveal things like rotting wood and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good order for its future use. The most frequent issues can be fixed easily and do not need replacement.

Problems such as the sash not closing or open can be annoying and affect the efficiency of your home. It's also a risk if your windows unexpectedly slam shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of heat or cool air.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and shut. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't working properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.

Over that guy , wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and are affected by changes in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be avoided by ensuring a good seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to protect against moisture.

Other sash issues include a faulty lock, cord displacement and nail jamming. All of these make it difficult to open and close sash windows. A carpenter can fix these issues by taking off the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then re-cording them.

Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained again to improve their appearance. It is essential to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different method to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.

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