15 Glazing Repairs Benefits Everyone Must Be Able To

Glazing Repairs

Correctly repairing your glass can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is operating as well as possible, improving its overall performance.

It isn't always easy to determine whether the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are some of most common problems that need to be fixed:

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system. They protect, 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 might require repair or replacement at some time. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.

Fogging in your double paned IGU is one of the most commonly reported indicators that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture seep in, creating condensation. Steamers are a great option to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it is recommended that you fix your window seals by a professional.

In addition to allowing condensation and fogging between the windows, a weak seal can cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between the two panes is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon, which helps the IGU resist thermal transfer and retain heat within the home. Once the window seal fails the insulation benefit of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will rise.

As time passes, rubber gaskets will begin to lose their elasticity due to aging and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors, such as UV radiation. This can cause mildew and mold if not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and compromising your insulation.





Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to prevent window seals from falling apart. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Don't apply reflective films to your insulated window, because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers as they can harm sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a hazard that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass within a window could fall and cause further windows to break or cause drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that has been broken can pose danger to anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass is difficult to remove and may cause additional damage to frames, sash and adjacent surfaces.

The first step to take when a windowpane is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap to prevent further shattering. This will keep insects, rain and other debris out of your home until you are able to replace the glass. This is particularly crucial for windows with higher levels.

Then, be sure to take precautions by putting on thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points from the frame recesses. Once the glass is removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

It's important to measure the opening of your window and ensure that the replacement is the exact right size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get 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 new glass, place it carefully into the frame and check for a flush fit to the rabbets that support it. A glass pane that's too big could cause clouding and swelling of the wood around it, while one that's too small could fall off the frame and allow drafts into your home.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secure, roll another cord of glaziers' compound around the perimeter of the glass to seal it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers to ensure that it is even around the new pane. Once dry paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural strength of curtain wall frames and systems is vital to the security, performance, and compliance of the glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they are corroded degraded or misaligned. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to make sure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that need to be addressed. These problems can be very hazardous and could result in severe damage over the course of time. It is crucial to address any structural issues as quickly as you can to avoid costly repairs down the road.

double glazing repairs require extensive structural support to withstand wind loads and other stresses. Water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes or improper installation.

Another issue that is common is warping, which can cause deformed or distorted glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency and security. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair actions if necessary.

The first step of an inspection of glazing is to make sure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees 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 more difficult-to-reach places.

For windows made of wood, the most common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed using two-part epoxy, however rotted or severely damaged wood is typically better replaced. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them, then applying graphite grease. Window companies made of aluminum are typically the ones who handle more difficult problems such as replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash parts.

Replacing a curtain wall system usually involves the cost of installation is much higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A replacement system can assist in bringing an existing structure into line with the more stringent requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window problems can be identified and resolved by an inspection. A professional assessment of the window can identify issues like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good condition for its future use. The most common problems are easily rectified and don't require replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that won't open or close can be a hassle and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can cause injuries, property damage and a loss of air conditioning or heat.

Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more quickly. If the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.

Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or clogged in the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood and regularly applying a sash sealer or painting to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that may be caused by a defective the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make windows more difficult to open and close. A carpenter can resolve these issues by taking off the sash and fixing or replacing damaged parts, before re-cording them.

It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It's important to keep them in good shape to protect the glass from water ingress and rot which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded in order to stop it from leaking water into surrounding timber, causing wood decay.