Glazing Repairs

The correct repair of your glazing can boost the value of your home. It will also improve the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most common issues that need fixing:.

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an essential part of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. They are designed to last for a long time however, the reality is that they could require repair or replacement at some point. There are many options for repair, based on your budget.

One of the most common signs that your window seals are failing is the presence of fog in your double pane IGU. (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes in your IGU. This allows water to get in, causing condensation. Steamers can be used to clear the windows or apply window putty. However, it's best to fix your window seals by an expert.

A leaky seal can cause your windows' insulation to decrease. The space between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU resist heat transfer and keeps the heat inside the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost when the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.


Over time, rubber gaskets will begin to deteriorate due to aging and exposure. Degradation can be accelerated through poor care or environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can lead to mildew and mold if not dealt with. This can cause damage to the frame and sash of your IGU and cause damage to the appearance and compromising insulation.

Avoiding common blunders and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to avoid window seals falling apart. For instance, you should avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean your windows since it could work its way into the sash, and damage the seal. Do not apply reflective films to your window that is insulated, because it could void the warranty and damage the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can harm sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a common problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window could fall and cause further windows to break or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A broken glass pane could also pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it, including pets or children. Glass that is shattering is not just a risk to safety but can also be difficult to remove, and cause additional damage to frames and sash and other surfaces.

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

Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. With pliers or a putty take the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. Once the glass has been removed, clean all the areas around it to prepare for the new replacement window.

It's important to measure the window's opening and make sure that the replacement is the exact proper size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid any mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the new pane.

When click here for more info Links to an external site. to install the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and check for a flush fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane that's too big can swell and cloud the surrounding wood, while one that's too small can fall from the frame or let drafts enter your home.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is secured by a second cord of compound for glaziers around the edges of the glass to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound using your finger to ensure it's even around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural strength of curtain wall systems and framing systems is crucial to the safety, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, damaged or misaligned. The inspector also examines the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they are properly installed and that they are not leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural problems 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 fix any structural issues as soon as you can to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems need extensive structural support to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. The intrusion of water by these components could be costly and damaging. These failures are usually caused by inadequate construction, design errors and improper installation.

Another common problem is warping. This can cause distorted or deformed glass panels that can affect the appearance of the system, energy efficiency and safety. A glazing inspector looks for warping during an inspection and suggests repair actions if necessary.

The first step in a glazing inspection is to make sure that the work area has been cleared of all obstructions and that employees are wearing appropriate safety gear. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all part of the safety equipment. It is also a good idea to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.

Common repairs for windows made of wood are missing or damaged hardware. A small crack in window frames made of wood can be fixed with a two-part epoxy, but damaged or rotted wood is typically recommended replacement. Sliding sashes that have become stuck in their tracks can be cleared by sanding them before applying graphite grease. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or major sash or frame parts are usually left to aluminum window manufacturers.

The cost of replacing the curtain wall system is typically higher than the cost of rehabilitation, however the energy savings as well as the increased comfort of people living in the structure could allow the initial investment to be paid back. Additionally, a replacement system can assist in bringing the existing structure into conformance to more stringent building code requirements for insulated glazing and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and fix a variety of sash window problems. A professional window inspection can detect things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass, ensuring that the window is in good shape for its future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't require replacement.

Problems such as a sash window that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and can also affect the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also dangerous when windows suddenly snap shut, causing injuries, property damage and loss of cool air or heat.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your sash window and spraying lubricant on it can make them easier to open and shut. If the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't functioning properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself.

Wooden window sashes absorb moisture over time and are affected by changes in humidity. They then expand and shrink, which may cause them to become stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining a tight seal on the wood and applying regularly paint or a sash sealer to guard against moisture.

Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming, which can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash, replacing or repairing any damaged components, then reconnecting them.

Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good condition to safeguard 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 keep it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.