Why Glazing Repairs Is Your Next Big Obsession Glazing Repairs

Making repairs to your glazing correctly can boost your home's value. This can also increase the effectiveness of your windows or doors.

It can be tricky to know whether the issue you're experiencing requires professional attention. Here are a few of the most common problems that need to be fixed:

Seals that have been damaged

Window seals are an essential component of your glazing system that protect, insulate, and protect windows from outside air and moisture. Although they are designed to last a long time and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will need to be replaced at some point. The good news is there are a variety of options for repair according to your budget and timeframe.

Fogging in your double paned insulated glass unit is one of the most common indicators that your window seals have failed. Foggy windows are caused by a broken seal between the two glass panes of your IGU which allows moisture to seep in, creating condensation. Although you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, such as using a steamer or applying window putty, the most effective solution is to repair your window seals by a professional.

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

Over time rubber gaskets start to lose their elasticity due to age and exposure. The degrading process can be accelerated by insufficient care or by environmental factors such as UV radiation. This can result in mildew and mold if not taken care of. This can eat through the frame and sash of your IGU and cause a shabby appearance and compromising your insulation.

The best way to prevent the possibility of a leak in window seals is to perform regular maintenance and avoiding common mistakes. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to clean windows as it can cause damage to 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. Finally, be double glazing repairs Marlow when using chemicals such as paint strippers, since they can damage the sealant and cause it to fail.

Broken Glass

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

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

Take precautions by wearing thick protective eyewear and gloves that are cut-resistant. Utilizing a putty knife, or pliers, cut out old glazing points, the tiny fasteners that hold glass into the frame's recesses. After the glass has been removed, wash the surrounding areas to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window.

After measuring the window's opening, it's important to ensure the new replacement is exactly the right size. Most glaziers have standard-sized panes available however, if energy-efficient glass or safety glass is required, it may require cutting to fit the frame. To avoid mistakes make sure you measure the opening of your window and subtract about 1/8 to 1/4 inch to fit the new pane.

When you're ready to put in your new glass, be sure to place it into the frame. Make sure that it's flush with the rabbets. A glass pane that is too big can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could be thrown out of the frame or allow drafts in.

Once you've confirmed that the new pane is securely secured, roll another cord of compound for glaziers' around the glass's perimeter to secure it to the frame and sash. Smooth the compound with your fingers to ensure that it's level with the new pane. Once the compound is dry paint it on the frame to match your window.

Structural Problems

The structural integrity and performance of curtain wall and framing systems are crucial to the safety, compliance and performance of glazing surfaces. During an inspection, the expert will inspect anchors, fasteners and supports to determine whether they have corroded, degraded or misaligned. The inspector will also inspect the sealants and rubber gaskets, to ensure that they have been properly installed and are not leaking.

Structural issues that must be addressed include rusted frames and walls that are sagging. These problems can be very dangerous and may lead to severe damage in the future. It is crucial to address any structural problems as soon as possible in order to avoid expensive repairs later on.

Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to resist the forces of wind and other stress. If these components fail, the water intrusion that results can be damaging and costly. These failures are usually caused by poor construction, design mistakes and poor installation.

Warping can also lead to distortion or deformed panels which could impact the appearance as well as the energy efficiency and safety of the system. A glazing inspector will look for warping and recommend repair measures if necessary.

The first step of an inspection of the glazing is to ensure that the area of work has been cleared of all obstructions and that the workers are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats, and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or more difficult to reach places.

For wood-framed windows, common repairs involve a lack of or damaged hardware. A few minor cracks in window frames made of wood can be fixed using two-part epoxy, however damaged or rotten wood is typically recommended replacement. Sashes that are stuck can usually be freed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite lubricant. Aluminum window companies are usually the ones to tackle more difficult problems like replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash elements.


Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with an upfront cost that is higher than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and increased occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A new system could help bring an existing structure in conformity with the stricter requirements of building codes, such as insulation of glass and wind resistance to load.

Sash Issues

Visual inspections can help diagnose and address many issues with sash windows. A professional window inspection will reveal things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good shape to be used in the future. The most common problems can be easily fixed and do not require replacement.

Issues like a sash that doesn't close or open can be a nuisance and affect the energy efficiency of your home. Your windows can also be dangerous if they suddenly close shut. This can cause injuries, property damage, and even a loss of heat or air conditioning.

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep sliding sash windows in good condition and working well. Cleaning the window of your sash and spraying it with lubricant could make it easier to open and shut. If the problem persists it could be because the balances don't work correctly or that something is wrong with the sash.

Over time the wooden windowsashes absorb moisture and are affected by the fluctuation in humidity levels. This causes them swell and shrink, which could result in them becoming stuck or trapped within the frame. This can be avoided by keeping an airtight seal around the wood, and by regularly applying the sash paint or sealer to shield against moisture.

Other sash issues that can be caused by a defective sash lock, cord displacement and nail jamming that can make sash windows harder to open and close. A carpenter can solve these issues by removing the sash and replacing or repairing any damaged parts, and then re-cording them.

It is possible to re-stain stained windows to bring back their original appearance. It is important to maintain them in good order to protect the glass from water infiltration and rot that may occur when the paint begins to crack and peel. Re-leading stained glass is another way to stop it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.