Notes

Why Glazing Repairs Is A Lot Much More Hazardous Than You Think
Glazing Repairs

Correctly repairing your glass can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your windows and doors.

It can be a challenge to determine if the problem you are experiencing requires professional repair. Here are some of the most common issues that need fixing:.

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an important part of your glazing system. They are used to secure windows, insulate them and seal them against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time however, they may need repair or replacement at some time. There are a variety of options for repair, based on your budget.

Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most commonly reported signs that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows may be caused by an unsound seal between two glass panes in your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through, causing condensation. Although you can try some quick-fixes to defog your windows, such as using a steamer, or applying window putty, the best solution is to have your window seals repaired by a professional.

In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the window panes, a faulty seal can cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as xenon or argon which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep the heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also rise.

Rubber gaskets start to degrade over time because of exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by improper care or by environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope, resulting in the growth of mold and mildew. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening the insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and executing regular maintenance is the best way to stop window seals from falling apart. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows, as it can cause damage to the seal. Don't apply reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. 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 an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A shattered pane within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create drafts, or let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Glass that has been broken is not just a safety risk but can also be difficult to get rid of and cause further damage to sash and frames and other surfaces.

The first thing to do when a window is damaged is to seal it up with a cross patch of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and debris out of the home until you are able to replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows that are higher up.

Next, take precautions by wearing protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, remove old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass is removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

After determining the window's opening, it is important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want security glass or energy-efficient, it's likely to have to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid committing mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.

When you're ready to install the new glass, place it with care into the frame and make sure it's a flush fit to the rabbets that support it. A new glass pane that's too huge can swell and cloud the wood surrounding it, whereas one that's too small could fall off the frame and let drafts enter your home.

After the new pane is secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's even all around the new pane. When dry, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity of curtain wall frames and systems is crucial to the safety and performance of the glazed surfaces. In an inspection, a professional inspects anchor points, fasteners, and supports for signs of corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also inspect the gaskets and sealants made of rubber, to ensure that they are 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 essential to take care of any structural issues as quickly as you can, to avoid costly repairs down the road.


Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support in order to withstand winds, and other stresses. When these components fail the water intrusion that occurs can be damaging and costly. The underlying causes of the failures are poor construction, design flaws and poor installation.

Warping can also cause double glazing window repairs or deformed panels which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed.

Glazing inspections should begin by making sure that the work area is clear of obstructions, and that all workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety gear. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.

For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks in wooden window panes can often be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotten wood is generally better replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones who handle more difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash components.

The cost of replacing an existing curtain wall system is usually higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the savings in energy consumption as well as the increased comfort for occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be paid back. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure in conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind resistance to load.

Sash Issues

Many sash window problems can be easily identified and dealt with through a visual inspection. 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 condition for future use. Fortunately, the most frequent problems are less serious and do not necessarily require replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that isn't able to open or close can be a nuisance and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be risky if they suddenly snap closed. This can cause injuries, property damage, and the loss of air conditioning or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to ensure they look good and operating properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying it with lubricant could make them easier to open and shut. If the issue persists, it could indicate that the balances aren't working properly or there is a problem with the sash.

Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or clogged within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues include a damaged lock, cord displacement, and nail jamming. These issues make it difficult to open and shut windows for sash. A carpenter can resolve these problems by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged parts, before re-cording them.

Stained glass windows may be stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to avoid water ingress and rot as well as other problems that can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional option to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.

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