Replacement Double Glazed Units
Double-glazed units, also known as sealed units as they're also known, can wear out over time. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes are broken down.
It is essential to replace a damaged or broken window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and well-insulated. The task is simple and easy to complete at home.
Installation
If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will fit firmly in place and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new glazed unit isn't the same thickness as the previous one, then you might need to modify the existing "packers" (usually red or blue slips of plastic) within the frame to ensure it is properly positioned. If you are unsure what to do, consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.
A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit is made to exacting standards, and should fit into your frame with no hassle. But, even a tiny mistake can have an enormous impact on the performance of your window and should be examined attentively.
Modern double-glazed units are a great energy efficient addition to any home. They apply argon between the panes glass to provide insulation, and reduce the amount heat that escapes your home in cold weather.
Sometimes, these units can develop issues with their seals. This typically happens when moisture enters the air space of the glass and creates condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in the cavity of your windows is not only unsightly but also affects the effectiveness and efficiency of the glass unit.
Condensation can be caused by a range of causes. The most effective method to test for it is to look for a hazy or misty appearance between your window panes. This indicates that the seal between two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.
The first step is to remove the glass beads that surround the edges of the window. It can be a bit difficult and messy, however it is worth it as you will have access to the wedge gasket which holds the glass in place. It is important to remove the beads with care to ensure they don't break. Asking for help can be a good idea at this stage. After the beads are removed, allow the sealed unit to drop slightly out of the frame and with a helper hold it in position while you precisely measure the width, height and also the thickness. This is crucial because it will determine the size of the wedge gasket must be cut to accommodate the brand new double-glazed sealed unit.
Checking
Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are usually called, can break down over time. This is usually due to an opening in the seal that allows condensation and moisture to enter the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to block out cold air, heat produced by the heating system within the home and solar gain inside the window.
The failure of seals can cause draughts in the home. It is essential to regularly check your double-glazed windows for signs of failure. A misting or a haze of moisture in the glass is a strong sign that the seal has failed and a replacement should be put in place.
If you have to replace a sealed unit it is vital that the new unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is installed have a very limited tolerance for movement, which means that even a few millimetres can impact the performance of the windows. To be certain that you are ordering the correct size, it is best to seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.
With the help of a person who holds the new unit, gently slide it into place in the frame. It is essential that you do this in a secure location since the glass is fragile and can fall out and break. Once the sealed unit is secure within the frame, re-attach any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then put the glazing beads back into their original positions. Once you've done this, give the whole window a visual inspection to ensure there aren't any gaps or misalignments that could affect its performance.
It may be necessary to apply a bit of sealant to the outer edge of the frame to stop it from shifting in the future. It is recommended to re-check the thickness of the glass unit. This is crucial since double-glazed units come in different thicknesses, and using the wrong thickness can impact the u-value your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing can boost the thermal efficiency of your home and also offer better sound insulation. Over time the seals on the glass can be worn out, resulting in misted or drooping windows. In these instances, replacement is essential. It's a good idea to work with a double glazing professional who can assist you in selecting the most suitable glass products, take accurate measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
If you are replacing a sealed unit, the first step is clean the frame. You can use an old paint brush (4 inches is the ideal size) to clean the frame, removing dust and cobwebs which accumulate in the frame over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's a good idea to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. The easiest way to do this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by putting your fingers on the edge and pulling it out at the point where it is in contact with the friction joint. Make a note of how long you need the new seals. replacing window seal will aid in cutting them.
Installation of the sealed unit is straightforward after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. It's a good idea to remove the beads (the UPVC frames clips that are used to hold the glasses) and then measure the size of them. This will ensure that the seal is made to the right size and will not leave gaps around it.
Once the beads are back in their place, you can insert the first bead and proceed to the other three. You should be cautious not to touch the sealed units for a few minutes afterward as the silicone sealant will require time to set and become hard before you are able to handle it again. I typically wait around 6 hours before handling it, however the silicone sealant's setting time can vary.
Finalization
Sealing and finishing the project is now required once the new double-glazed unit is been securely installed within its frame. This step is more than just a physical closure to the project; it's an assurance that your home is ready to weather the elements with its new safe guardian in its place.
The first step involves cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads, strips or other materials that were used to fix the old glass. The frame is cleaned of dirt, old sealant, and glazing tape, a procedure which also renews the timber or aluminium of the window's frame. It's also a good time to evaluate any damage and make small repairs using wood filler or sanding if necessary. Major damage should be referred to an expert for repair.
The spacer tubes will then be filled with desiccants in order to take in any moisture that could have been trapped between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. This is a standard procedure for units with warm edges. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing machines.
After the spacers have been filled with glass, it is sealed with a high performance silicone designed to withstand the harsh conditions of Australia's climate. The sealant creates an airtight seal that is both durable and flexible, and can expand and contract without breaking. It's important to use the correct thickness, since any gaps could affect thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manufacturer's guide if you are unsure about the right thickness for your.
The final step is to add secondary sealant, typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. It's applied to the edges of the frame's exterior, where it creates a secondary seal that's able to repel moisture and block air from entering, helping to improve energy efficiency.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating can endure the elements and keep your frame looking fresh for a long time. This is a wise investment to ensure the longevity and beauty of your home's frames, especially if you have federation or period homes with wooden frames that are prone to get rotted.