Glazing Repair Tips
Keeping windows and doors intact is one of the most important parts of your building maintenance. Glazing repairs are a big responsibility for any glass company. They are required to work at heights using large panes and adhere to strict guidelines.
The seal that binds the two panes of glass together is often damaged and causes water or moisture to build up in double-glazed windows. This can be fixed by reglazing.
Panes that are chipped or cracked
It's not just unattractive, but a cracked or chipped pane can make your home vulnerable to the weather. While it's not possible to stop cracks from forming but you can make steps to slow their spread and prolong the life of your windows.
One of the most effective ways to prevent a crack from becoming worse is to apply a strong-hold tape to hold it in the right place. Masking or packing tape will work for superficial cracks, like stress cracks caused by cold temperatures, which cause the glass to expand and contract. For more severe cracks, you might need to increase the amount of tape. Each piece should extend over the edges of the window on both sides.
Nail polish is also an option for those who want a less invasive solution. Clear nail polish is a good alternative because it has adhesive properties to stop the crack from expanding and sealing the crack, preventing moisture from entering or leaving your home. This type repair is not going to last long, and you will need to reapply it frequently.
Epoxy is far more durable than other solutions for repairing damaged glass. To remove any debris, or broken pieces of glass clean the affected area using soap and water. Prepare a work area by putting on safety glasses and gloves that are protective. Remove the sash from your window, if needed (newer casement windows come with release catchers that make this process easier).
Mix equal parts hardener and epoxy on an unclean plate or in a well-ventilated area. Then apply the mixture of epoxy to the cracked glass using a putty knife, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Allow the epoxy mixture to sit for 10 minutes before taking out any excess with a razor blade, or a clean rag soaked in acetone.
Depending on how well you completed your repair and how often your window is bumped, it could last years before it needs to be repaired again. If you see signs of wear or tear, or when the crack becomes wider, replace your glass windows.
Leaking Windows
It's important to take action promptly if you've got leaky windows. The water that seeps through windows can cause mold growth, wood rot and a host of other issues that can damage your home or impact your health. There are a variety of ways to fix leaky windows that can keep your home warm and secure.
Sealant that is old or worn out can lead to window leaks. When the putty used to seal the window in place dries out, it leaves gaps around the frame which can let cold air and water to enter your home. This issue can be addressed by recoating your sealant with new caulk. You'll want to apply waterproof caulk to ensure that it is effective in battling water and preventing leaks.
Poor installation is a frequent cause of windows that leak. This can include flashing that's susceptible to water or nails that don't resist corrosion. In these instances windows may require replacement entirely.
Leaking windows can also indicate it's time to upgrade to high-efficiency vinyl. They are more energy efficient than older windows, and will lower your cooling and heating costs.
It can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of a leaky window. Examine the walls around it for evidence of water staining. These stains are usually an indicator that moisture is getting into the wall cavities, which could cause problems with flooring and furniture.
Window professionals can assist in determining the source of the leak. They can inspect the entire window and wall structure to determine the cause. This is a lengthy process, but the most thorough. A professional can remove any damaged or rotten wood from the window frame and the surrounding wall and then replace it with new material to avoid any future leaks. They may also do the full replacement of the frame which is a more complicated solution that includes removing the old window, and then installing a new one from the starting point.
Repair My Windows And Doors Beads
A common issue is the lack of sealant beads at corners and joints. These beads are a cause for water infiltration into the glass and into the glazing pocket. These gaps can be filled by using silicone caulk in a gun-grade application. Make sure you have enough sealant as well as the correct caulking tool to complete the task. Use denatured ethanol to clean and eliminate any debris that could hinder the bonding of the new sealant to the substrate. To determine the compatibility and adhesion, mock-ups must be created using the sealant.
Load the sealant tube into the caulking tool. Squeeze the trigger to start pushing the sealant out. If necessary, you can cut the top of your application tube to make it longer. Try laying a bead on scrap wood to get the feel of how the sealant flows. After placing a bead onto the surface, gently smooth it using a painter's edge tool (or your finger if you have a soiled, water-soaked finger). Be careful not to drag the tool multiple directions over the silicone beads.
Poor Energy Efficiency
The use of high-efficiency glass reduces the loss of heat from homes and can save money on energy bills. It also helps to block out outside noises, creating a more peaceful environment.
Keep your windows free of paint stains so that they're functioning. Paint thinners or solvents can be used to accomplish this. Always ensure that the area is well-ventilated as some chemicals emit powerful fumes. Test the substance first on a small amount of glass to determine whether it's safe to use.
If you have visible paint stains on your window panes, start by covering any nearby surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheets. This will shield the area from paint splatters or other damage after getting rid of the stain. Then, soak the surface with the cleaner. This will soften the stain and make it easier to remove. A plastic scraper or putty knife could be employed, but you must be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could scratch the window's surface.
It is important to consult the conservation officer of your local council prior to making any changes to your windows if you live in an area that is designated conservation area or a building that is listed. They can provide advice on non-intrusive solutions to glazing that can still increase the energy efficiency of your property.