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Glazing Repairs The correct repair of your glazing can increase the value of your home. It will also ensure that your door or window is working as well as possible, improving its overall efficiency. However, it can be tricky to know whether the problem you're experiencing is one that needs professional repair. Here are some of the most common issues that need fixing:. Seals that are damaged Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate, and seal windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the reality is that they will need to be replaced at some point. There are many options to repair them, based on your budget. One of the most common signs that your window seals aren't working is the presence of fog 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 seep in, creating condensation. You can use a steamer to defog the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by a professional. In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal will also cause your windows to lose their insulation value. The space between your two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon, which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep warm within the house. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be lost and your energy bills will increase. Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and age. Degradation can be accelerated through poor care or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash on your IGU and ruin the appearance and weakening insulation. The best way to avoid a breakdown of window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it could damage the seal. Do not apply reflective film to your window that is insulated, because it could void the guarantee and damage the sealant. Be cautious when using chemical like paint strippers as they can harm sealant and cause failure. Broken Glass Broken glass is an obvious problem that requires immediate attention. A pane shattered in a window can fall and break windows or cause a draft and even 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 is especially true for pets and children. In addition to being a safety hazard broken glass can be difficult to remove and could cause further damage to frames, sash and the surfaces that are adjacent to it. The first step to take when a window has damaged is to seal it up with a cross-pattern of duct tape to stop further shattering. This will keep bugs, rain and debris out of the house until you can replace your glass. This is especially important for windows that are higher up. Then, be sure to take precautions by wearing thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With a putty or pliers take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, wash the entire area to prepare it for a new window. It is essential to measure the window opening and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available to insert but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass it will likely need to be cut specifically to fit your frame. To avoid making mistakes, measure your window opening and subtract 1/8 to ¼ inches for the new pane. When you're ready for installing the glass, put it in the frame with care and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to swell, and a pane too small could fall out of the frame or allow drafts get in. After the new pane is secured, you can roll another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure it's even around the new pane. When dry paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window. Structural Problems The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial for the safety, compliance and performance of glazed surfaces. During an inspection, a professional inspects fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. They also examine the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they are installed correctly and aren't leaky. Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that must be addressed. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to serious damage over time. It is important that you take care of any structural issues as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs in the future. Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support in order to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. When these components fail the resulting water intrusion can be costly and damaging. The root causes of these failures include poor construction, design errors, and inadequate installation. Another issue that is common is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels and affect the appearance of the system, its energy efficiency and security. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repairs if required. Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is clear of obstructions and all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment. Gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety equipment. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult-to-reach places. Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotten wood is best replaced. Sashes that are stuck can usually be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More difficult problems, such as replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window companies. The cost of replacing the existing curtain wall is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings and the improved comfort for the occupants may make it possible for the initial investment to be paid back. A new system could help bring an existing structure in line with the more stringent standards of building codes for insulation of glass and wind resistance to load. Sash Issues Many issues with sash windows can be easily identified and dealt with by a visual inspection. A professional window inspection can identify things like rotting wood, paintwork damage and broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape for future use. Most of the problems that arise can be easily fixed and do not need replacement. Problems like a sash windows that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly slam shut. This can cause injuries, property damage, and the loss of heat or air conditioning. Sliding sash windows need regular maintenance to keep them looking good and working properly. Cleaning your windows for sash and spraying them with lubricant will allow them to open and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists it could be a sign that the balances aren't working correctly or that something is wrong with the sash itself. Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and can be affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. They can expand and shrink, which could cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This can be avoided by maintaining a tight seal on the wood, and regularly applying paint or a sash sealer to shield against moisture. Other sash problems that could arise include a faulty sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming, which can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These can often be fixed by carpenters who can take off the sash, repair or replace any damaged components and reconnect them. It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows to restore their original appearance. double glazing Walsall is important to maintain them in good condition to prevent water intrusion, rot and other problems that may occur when paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different way to stop it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.