7 Helpful Tips To Make The Most Of Your Glazing Repairs Glazing Repairs

Getting glazing repairs right can increase the value of your home. It will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It can be difficult to know if the issue you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are some of the most common problems that need to be addressed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system. They secure the windows, insulate them and seal against the elements of air and water. They are designed to last for a long time, however, they might require repair or replacement at some time. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget.

Fogging in your double paned IGU is one of the most commonly reported indications that the window seals are failing. Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to be absorbed, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick fixes to clear your windows, for instance using a steamer or window putty, the most efficient solution is to repair your window seals by a professional.

In addition to allowing fogging and condensation between the windows, a weak seal could cause your windows to lose their insulating value. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with an inert gas such as argon and xenon which helps the IGU to resist heat transfer and keep the heat in the house. double glazing repairs of the IGU's insulation will be lost when the window seal fails. Your costs for energy will also increase.

Rubber gaskets start to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. The process can be accelerated by improper maintenance or environmental factors like UV radiation. If not addressed, this can cause water penetration into the building envelope resulting in mold and mildew. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and damaging your insulation.

The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is to carry out regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. Avoid using a high pressure washer to clean windows, as it could damage the seal. Additionally, do not add a reflective window film to your insulated glass because it could void the warranty and harm the sealant material. Finally, be careful when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, since they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a common issue that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass within a window could be thrown down and cause additional windows to break or create a draft, or even let insects or water into your home. A glass pane that is broken can be dangerous for anyone who comes into contact with it. This includes pets and children. In addition to being a safety risk broken glass can be difficult to remove and could result in additional damage to frames, sash and other surfaces.

If a window is cracked, the first step is to tape it up with the cross-patch of duct tape to stop further shattering and keep bugs, rain and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for windows that are higher up.

Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves. Also, wear eye protection. Using a putty knife or pliers, remove old glazing points, which are the tiny fasteners that fix glass into the frame's recesses. Once the glass has been removed, clean all the areas around it to prepare them for a new replacement window.

After measuring the window's opening, it's important to make sure that the replacement is the exact size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes, but if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it could require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid any mistakes, measure the window opening and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inch for the new pane.

Once you're ready to put in the new glass, place it with care into the frame and make sure it's an even fit with the rabbets holding it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to swell and a pane that is too small may fall out of the frame or allow drafts get in.

After the new pane is secured, you can roll another piece of glaziers' compound around the perimeter to secure the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your finger, ensuring it's evenly distributed around the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.

Structural Issues

The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing systems is crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, the professional will examine anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, degraded, or misaligned. He or she also checks the sealants and gaskets to ensure that they're installed correctly and that they aren't leaking.

Rusted frames and sagging walls are structural issues that must be addressed. These issues can be dangerous and may lead to severe damage over the course of time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as fast as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require extensive structural support to be able to withstand winds and other strains. The water intrusion caused by these components can be costly and destructive. These failures are often caused by poor construction, design mistakes and poor installation.

Warping can also result in distortion or deformed panels which may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair actions if necessary.

The first step of a glazing inspection is to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that workers are wearing the proper safety gear. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a ladder and harness to reach higher or harder-to-reach places.

For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. Two-part epoxy is a good choice to repair minor cracks on window panes made of wood, but severely damaged or rotted wood is best replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. More stubborn problems like replacing sliding mechanisms or the major frame or sash components are usually left to aluminum window companies.

Replacing a curtain wall system typically involves a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and improved quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. In addition, a replacement system could help bring the structure in line with more strict building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many issues with sash windows can be identified and resolved through a visual examination. Things like rotting wood or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can all be identified with a professional assessment of the window to ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. Most of the problems that arise can be fixed easily and don't require replacement.


Issues like the sash not closing or open could be frustrating and affect the efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be risky if they suddenly snap closed. This can cause injuries, property damage and the loss of air conditioning or heat.

Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray can aid in opening and close more quickly. However, if the issue persists, it could be a sign that the balances aren't operating properly or there is something wrong with the sash itself.

Wooden window sashes absorb water over time and are affected when humidity levels fluctuate. They can expand and shrink, which can cause them to become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be prevented by maintaining an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to shield against moisture.

Other sash issues that can occur are a damaged lock for sash cord displacement, cord displacement or nail jamming, which can make windows more difficult to open and close. They can be repaired by a carpenter who will remove the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and reconnect them.

Stained glass windows can sometimes be stained to restore their appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to guard against the ingress of water and rot, which could occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Stained glass can also be re-leaded to prevent it from leaking water into surrounding timber and causing wood decay.