Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right can boost your home's value. This can also increase the efficiency of your windows and doors.

However, it isn't always easy to determine what the issue you're experiencing requires professional assistance. Here are some of most common problems that need to be fixed:

Seals that are damaged

Window seals are a crucial component of your glazing system. They are used to secure windows, insulate them and seal them against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time, but the reality is they might require repair or replacement at some moment. There are several options available to repair them, based on your budget.

Fogging in your double-paned insulated glass unit is among the most frequent indications that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows may be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes within your IGU. This can allow moisture to seep through and cause condensation. While you can try a few quick fixes to clear your windows, such as using a steamer, or applying window putty, the best solution is to get your window seals replaced by an expert.

A leaky seal can cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas, such as argon and xenon, which helps the IGU ward off heat transfer and keep heat in the home. The IGU's insulation benefits will be lost in the event that the window seal is damaged. Your costs for energy will also increase.

Gaskets made of rubber begin to degrade with time due to exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by inadequate care, or environmental factors like 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 weakening the insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to prevent window seals from being damaged. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows since it could damage the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass as it could void the warranty and damage the sealant material. Be careful when using chemicals like paint strippers because they can damage sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is an obvious issue that requires immediate attention. A broken pane in a window may fall and break windows, or create drafts and possibly even water or insects to infiltrate your home. A glass pane that has been broken could pose a risk to anyone who comes in contact with it. This is especially true for pets and children. Shattered glass is not only an hazard to safety however, it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to frames and sash as well as other surfaces.

The first step to take when a windowpane is cracked is to tape it up with a cross patch of duct tape to stop 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 important for upper-story windows.


Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points from the frame recesses. After the glass has been removed, you must clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

After measuring the window's opening, it's essential to ensure the new replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes on hand, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it might need to be cut to fit 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 the new glass, place it carefully into the frame and ensure it's an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A new glass pane that's too big can cause a cloud to form and swell on the wood around it, while one that's too small may fall off the frame and let drafts in your home.

After the new pane is secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your finger, ensuring that it's evenly distributed across the new pane. After drying paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity of curtain wall systems and framing systems is vital to the security, performance, and compliance of glass surfaces. In an inspection, a professional checks anchor points, fasteners and supports for signs of corrosion, deterioration, or misalignment. Double Glazing Repair or she will also examine the gaskets and sealants to make sure they have been properly installed and are not leaking.

The structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and sagging walls. These issues can be dangerous and could lead to severe destruction over time. It is important that you take care of any structural issues as soon as you can in order to avoid expensive repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to resist winds and other strains. The water intrusion caused by these components could be costly and damaging. The main causes for these failures include inadequate construction, design mistakes and poor installation.

Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels, which can impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair steps if required.

Glazing inspections should start by making sure the work area is clear of obstructions, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests are all a part of the safety gear. You can also use a ladder and harness to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.

Common repairs for wood-framed windows include missing or loose hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks in windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sliding sashes stuck in their tracks can be loosened by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like the replacement of sliding mechanisms as well as the major frame or sash components are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.

Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and increased quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. A replacement system can help bring an existing structure into compliance with the more stringent requirements of building codes for insulation of glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window issues may be easily identified and dealt with through a visual inspection. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be picked up with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good condition for future use. The most frequent issues can be easily fixed and do not require replacement.

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

Sliding windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and shut. If the issue persists it could be because the balances aren't functioning 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 could cause them become stuck or jammed within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.

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

Stained glass windows may be re-stained to restore their appearance. It's important to maintain them in good order to safeguard the glass from the ingress of water and rot, which may occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water onto the surrounding timber and causing wood decay.