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window repairs Braintree repairing your glass can increase the value of your home. It is also a way to ensure that your window or door is operating as efficiently as it can, increasing its overall performance. However, it isn't easy to tell whether the issue you're experiencing is one that requires professional assistance. Here are a few of the most common issues that need fixing:. Seals that have been damaged Window seals are an important element of your glazing system. They protect, insulate and seal windows against moisture and air outside. Although they are designed to last for a long time, and may require repair or replacement, the truth is that they will have to be replaced at some point. There are a variety of options for repair, depending on your budget. One of the most common signs that your window seals are failing is the presence of fog in the double pane of your insulated glass unit (IGU). Foggy windows result from a damaged seal between the two glass panes of your IGU that allows moisture to get in, causing condensation. While you can try some quick solutions to remove the fog from your windows, like using a steamer or applying window putty, the most efficient solution is to get your window seals replaced by an expert. A leaky seal could cause the insulation value of your windows to decrease. The space between the two panes is filled by inert gas such as argon or xenon that assists the IGU in resisting thermal transfer and keep heat in the home. If the window seal is damaged the insulation benefits of your IGU will be removed and your energy costs will increase. Rubber gaskets begin to degrade with time due to exposure and aging. The process can be accelerated by inadequate care, or environmental factors such as UV radiation. If not addressed, this could cause water infiltration into the building envelope and result in mildew and mold. This could eat away at the frame and sash of your IGU, ruining the appearance and weakening the insulation. The best way to avoid the possibility of a leak in window seals is by performing regular maintenance and avoiding common errors. For instance, do not use a high-pressure washer to clean your windows, since it could work its way into the sash and 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. Finally, be careful when using chemicals, such as paint strippers, as they can cause damage to the sealant and cause it to fail. Broken Glass Broken glass is a clear problem that requires immediate attention. A broken pane within a window could fall and cause other windows to break, or create drafts, or allow insects or water to enter your home. A glass pane that is broken could also pose a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially pets or children. Shattered glass is not only a safety risk however, it can also be difficult to get rid of, and cause additional damage to sash and frames as well as adjacent surfaces. The first step to take when a window is damaged is to wrap it up with a cross-pattern of duct tap in order to prevent 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 window. Wear thick, durable gloves. Also, wear eye protection. With pliers or a putty, pry old glazing points out of the recesses of the frame. After the glass has been removed, clean the areas around it to prepare for the installation of a new replacement window. After determining the window's opening, it's important to ensure that the replacement is precisely the right size. Most glaziers stock standard-sized panes ready to insert, but if you want energy-efficient or safety glass it's likely to need to be made specifically for your frame. To avoid a mistake, measure the window opening and subtract approximately 1/8 to ¼ inch from the new pane. When you're ready to install the new glass, place it in the frame with care and make sure it's a flush fit to the rabbets that hold it. A glass pane too large can cause the wood to expand and a pane that's too small could fall out of the frame or allow drafts get in. Once the new pane has been secured, you can wrap another glaziers compound around the perimeter of the pane to seal the glass to the frame and the sash. Smooth the compound using your fingers, making sure it's even all around the new pane. Once dry, paint the newly glazed compound and frame to match the rest of your window. Structural Problems The strength and structural integrity of curtain wall and framing system are crucial to the safety, compliance, and performance of glass surfaces. During an inspection, a professional will check fasteners, anchors, and supports to see whether they are corroded damaged or misaligned. They also check the gaskets and sealants to make sure that they are properly installed and that they aren't leaking. Rusted frames and sagging wall are structural issues that need to be addressed. These issues can be extremely dangerous and may lead to serious damage over time. It is crucial to fix any structural issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs later on. Curtain wall systems require substantial structural support to be able to withstand winds and other strains. When 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 may affect the appearance, energy efficiency and security of the system. A glass inspector will look for warping during an inspection and recommends repair measures if needed. Glazing inspections should begin by making sure the work area is free of obstructions and all workers are wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, hard hats and high-visibility vests. You can also utilize a harness and ladder to reach higher or harder-to-reach places. For windows with wood frames, typical repairs involve loose or missing hardware. Two-part epoxy can be used to repair minor cracks on windows made of wood, however severely damaged or rotted wood should be replaced. Sashes that stick can be removed from their tracks by sanding them and applying graphite grease. Aluminum window companies are typically the ones to tackle more complex issues like replacing sliding mechanisms, or major frame or sash components. Replacing an existing curtain wall usually comes with a much higher upfront cost than rehabilitation measures, but the energy savings and improved occupant comfort may eventually recoup the initial investment. A new system could assist in bringing an existing structure into conformity with the stricter standards of building codes for insulated glass and wind load resistance. Sash Issues Visual inspections can help diagnose and resolve a number of issues with sash windows. A professional window assessment can identify things like wood that is rotting and paintwork damage as well as broken glass, which will ensure that the window is in good order for future use. Luckily, the most common problems are less serious and don't require replacement. Issues like the sash not closing or open can be annoying and impact the efficiency of your home. It's also risky when windows suddenly snap shut and can lead to injuries, property damage or loss of cool or warm air. Sliding sash windows require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning well. Cleaning your windows for sash and applying a lubricant spray will allow them to open and close more quickly. If the issue persists it could be an indication that the balances aren't operating properly or there's something wrong with the sash itself. Over time wooden window sashes absorb moisture and can be affected by changing levels of humidity. They can expand and shrink which can cause them to become stuck or jammed within the frame. This is prevented by maintaining a a tight seal around the wood and by regularly applying an sash sealer or paint to protect against moisture. Other sash issues that may occur are a damaged the sash lock cord displacement, nail jamming which all make sash windows harder to open and close. These issues can usually be resolved by a carpenter who will remove the sash, replace or repair any damaged components and re-cord them. It is possible to re-stain stained glass windows in order to restore their original appearance. It's important to keep them in good condition to safeguard the glass from water ingress and rot which can occur when the paint begins to peel and crack. Re-leading stained glass is an additional option to prevent it from leaking into surrounding wood and causing decay.