A Step-By-Step Guide For Choosing Your Glazing Repairs Glazing Repairs

Repairing your glazing correctly can boost the value of your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your window or doors.

It can be difficult to determine if the problem you encounter requires professional assistance for repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that require to be fixed:

Damaged Seals

Window seals are an essential element of your glazing system that secure, insulate, and protect windows from external air and moisture. They are designed to last for a long time, but the reality is they may need repair or replacement at some point. The good news is there are several options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.

One of the most common signs that your window seals are failing is a fogging issue in your double pane IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows can be caused by the seal being damaged between two glass panes of your IGU. This allows moisture to seep through, causing condensation. While you can try a few quick-fixes to defog your windows, like using a steamer or window putty, the most efficient solution is to have your window seals repaired by an expert.

A leaky seal can cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled with inert gas like argon or xenon which assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and retain heat in the home. The IGU's insulating benefits will be lost if the window seal fails. Your energy bills will also increase.

Rubber gaskets begin to degrade over time due to exposure and age. The process can be accelerated by improper care, or environmental factors like UV radiation. This can cause mold and mildew if not addressed. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU and ruin the appearance and compromising your insulation.

Avoiding common mistakes and performing regular maintenance are the best ways to stop window seals from being damaged. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, because it could work its way into the sash and damage the seal. Do not apply a reflective film to your window that is insulated, as this could void the warranty and harm the sealant. Be careful when using chemicals such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to sealant and cause failure.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A cracked pane of glass within a window could fall and cause other windows to break, or create a draft, or even allow insects or water to enter your home. A broken glass pane could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, including pets or children. Shattered glass is not only a risk to safety however, it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to sash and frames as well as other surfaces.

When a windowpane cracks, the first step is to tape it up using a cross-patch of duct tape to prevent further shattering and keep rain, bugs and other debris out of your home until you can replace the glass. This method is especially important for upper-story windows.

Then, be sure to take precautions by putting on thick cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. With pliers or a putty remove the old glazing points from the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean the entire area to prepare it for a new window.

After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers will have standard-sized panes that are ready to be inserted but if you're looking to get energy-efficient or safety glass, it's likely to have to be made specifically to fit your frame. To avoid committing mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract 1/8 to 1/4 inches for the new pane.


When you're ready to install your new glass, carefully place it in the frame. Make sure it is in a straight line with the rabbets. A glass pane that's too large could cause the wood to expand, and a pane too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts enter.

After you've ensured that the new pane is securely secured to the frame, wrap another cord of compound for glaziers around the perimeter 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. After drying, paint the newly glazed frame and compound to match the rest of your window.

Structural Issues

The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are essential for the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, a professional checks fasteners, anchor points, and supports for corrosion or deterioration or misalignment. They also check the gaskets and sealants to ensure that they are installed correctly and that they aren't leaky.

Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be extremely hazardous and could result in severe damage over the course of time. It is important to address any structural issues as quickly as possible to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Curtain wall systems require a lot of structural support to withstand wind loads, and other stresses. When these components fail, the resulting water intrusion can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes, and poor installation.

Another common problem is warping, which could cause distorted or deformed glass panels, which can impact the appearance of the system, energy efficiency, and safety. An inspector for glass looks for warping during an inspection and recommends repair steps if required.

The first step in a glazing inspection is to make sure that the area of work is free of obstructions and that the workers are wearing the appropriate safety equipment. This includes hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. It's also recommended to use a ladder and harness to gain access to higher or difficult-to-access areas.

Common repairs for windows made of wood include loose or missing hardware. A few minor cracks on wooden window panes can often be repaired with a two-part epoxy, but rotted or severely damaged wood is typically recommended replacement. Sashes that stick can be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. More complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms or major frame or sash parts are typically left to aluminum window manufacturers.

Replacing double glazing window repairs existing curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation, however the energy savings and enhanced quality of life for the occupants may eventually cover the initial investment. Additionally, a replacement system could help bring the structure in line with the more strict building code requirements for insulated glass and wind load resistance.

Sash Issues

Many sash window problems can be easily identified and dealt with by a visual examination. Things like rotting timber or paintwork damage, as well as broken glass can be detected with a professional assessment of the window and ensure that the window is in good condition to be used in the future. Luckily, the most common issues are less severe and don't necessarily necessitate replacement.

Problems like a sash windows that isn't able to open or close can be a nuisance and could also impact the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It's also dangerous if your windows unexpectedly slam shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and functioning properly. Cleaning your window sash and spraying a lubricant can make it easier to open and shut. If the problem persists, it could indicate that the balances don't work properly or something is wrong with the sash.

Over time, wooden window sashes can absorb moisture and be affected by the fluctuation in levels of humidity. They then expand and shrink, which can cause them become stuck or encased within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an encapsulated seal around the wood, and by regularly applying a sash paint or sealer to protect against moisture.

Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective the sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make windows for sash difficult to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by carpenters who will take out the sash, replace or repair any damaged parts and re-cord them.

It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It is essential to keep them in good shape to protect the glass from water ingress and rot which may occur when the paint starts to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is a different option to prevent it from leaking into the surrounding wood and causing decay.