What is Wet Glazing?

Wet glazing, also known as wet sealing, is a popular technique in construction and window installation that ensures a watertight seal and sleek finish. Unlike dry glazing, which uses pre-formed gaskets, wet glazing involves applying a liquid sealant, typically silicone, directly to the joint between the glass and the frame. This method enhances durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency, making it a go-to choice for modern buildings. Whether you’re exploring glazing options or tackling a renovation, understanding wet glazing can help you make informed decisions for your project.

Wet Glazing as a Repair Technique

Addressing Failed Gaskets

Gaskets, often used in dry glazing systems, will fail over time due to similar factors such as weathering, temperature changes, and prolonged use. Failed gaskets can lead to water infiltration, air leaks, and decreased energy efficiency. Wet sealing is an excellent method for repairing these issues, as it can replace the ineffective gaskets with a durable and flexible sealant that conforms to the gaps and irregularities of the installation.

Revitalizing Windows and Frames

Wet sealing is a method for securing new glass panes and an effective repair technique for existing installations. Over time, the original sealant in windows and doors will deteriorate due to weathering, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations. This degradation will lead to leaks, drafts, and compromised structural integrity. Wet sealing offers a reliable solution for addressing these issues and restoring the performance and appearance of windows and frames.

Steps Involved in Wet Glazing

Repairing a window or door using wet glazing follows a systematic process to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. the key steps involved are:

Inspection: The first step is to thoroughly inspect the window or door to assess the extent of the damage and determine the areas that require repair. This involves checking for signs of leaks, drafts, sealant degradation, and failed gaskets.
Removal of Old Sealant: The damaged or degraded sealant and any failed gaskets are removed using tools such as a utility knife or scraper. Removing all traces of the old sealant is important to ensure proper adhesion of the new sealant.
Cleaning: The surfaces of the glass and frame are cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or residual sealant. This step is crucial for ensuring optimal adhesion of the new sealant.
Application of Primer: In certain cases, a primer will be applied to enhance the adhesion of the new sealant. This is especially important for difficult-to-bond substrates.
Application of New Sealant: Using a caulking gun, technicians apply the new sealant to the gap between the glass and the frame. They spread the sealant evenly and smoothly to fill the gap and create a uniform appearance.
Finishing: After applying the sealant, it is smoothed out using a tool known as a spatula. This ensures a neat and professional finish and a proper profile for movement and adhesion. The sealant will cure over the next 7 days, forming a strong and flexible bond.

Benefits of Wet Glazing Repairs

Wet glazing repairs offer several advantages that make them a preferred choice for addressing issues with windows and doors:

Enhanced Durability: The new sealant forms a strong bond that can withstand various environmental stresses, extending the lifespan of the window or door.
Improved Weather Resistance: Wet seal repairs restore the weather-tightness of the installation, preventing leaks and drafts and enhancing energy efficiency.
Cost-Effective Solution: Repairing windows and doors using a wet seal is often more cost-effective than replacing the entire unit. It allows homeowners to address specific issues without incurring the expense of a full replacement.
Preservation of Aesthetics: Wet seal repairs minimize disruption to the window or door’s appearance. Technicians tint the sealant to match the existing frame, ensuring a cohesive look.

Applications of Wet Glazing

Wet glazing repairs are especially beneficial for a wide range of commercial window systems, including:

Storefronts

Wet glazing can repair and maintain large glass storefronts, which is vital for a business’s visual appeal and customer attraction. This technique helps ensure that storefronts remain weather-tight and aesthetically pleasing.

Curtain Walls

Curtain walls are significant architectural elements in commercial buildings. Wet seal repairs address leaks and drafts in these systems, enhancing energy efficiency and structural integrity.

Office Windows

Office environments benefit from wet glazing repairs by ensuring that windows remain functional and visually appealing. This helps to create a comfortable and professional atmosphere for employees and clients.

Atriums and Glass Facades

Atriums and expansive glass facades in commercial buildings require specialized maintenance to preserve their appearance and performance. Wet sealing provides a cost-effective solution for these large-scale glass installations, ensuring they continue to look impressive and function efficiently.

Conclusion

Wet glazing is a versatile and effective repair technique that can address a range of issues with windows, doors, and other glass installations. By removing old sealant and failed gaskets and applying a fresh, durable sealant, wet glazing restores the performance and appearance of the installation. Whether for residential, commercial, or historical buildings, wet glazing repairs provide a cost-effective and efficient solution for maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of glass elements in any structure.