Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are often called) will break down. This happens when the insulating properties of inert gases between the glass panes are broken down.
If a window has been damaged down, it's crucial to replace the window to ensure that your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. Luckily, the task is simple and easy to accomplish at home.
Installation
If the window was put in correctly, the new unit will fit snugly and securely inside the frame. If the new glazed panel isn't the same thickness that your old one was it may be necessary to adjust the 'packers' (usually red or bluish plastic slips) in the frame. If you're not sure what to do, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.
A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit will be made to exacting standards and should fit in your frame with a minimum of fuss. A small mistake can have a major impact on the performance of your window and should therefore be checked with care.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic energy efficient addition to any home. They apply argon between the panes of glass to insulate, and reduce the amount heat that escapes from your home during cold weather.
Sometimes, these units can have issues with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture enters the air cavity of the glass and causes condensation between the panes. Moisture in your window cavity is not just ugly, but it also reduces the efficiency of the glass unit.
Check for a fogginess or misty look between your window panes. This indicates that the seal between the two glass panes is broken and moisture is leaking into your living spaces.
The first step is to remove the glazing beads from around the edges of your window. It can be difficult and messy, but it is worth it because you will have access to the wedge gasket which holds the glass in place. You will need to remove the beads with care so that they do not break and it is often recommended to seek assistance at this point. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to fall slightly out of the frame and with an assistant, hold it in position while you precisely measure the length, width and the thickness. This is crucial as it will determine what size wedge gasket you need to cut for your newly double-glazed sealed units.
Checking
Double glazing units or sealed units as they are commonly called and can fail over time. This is usually due to an opening in the seal, which allows condensation and moisture to enter the space between the panes. This will affect the ability of the window to keep cold air out, and warm produced by the heating system in, and solar gain from the sun's energy inside.
A faulty seal can also cause draughts in the home. It is important to regularly check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. If you see water or mists between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is failing and a new one should be installed.
It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames which the sealed unit is placed in have little tolerance for movement so even just a few millimetres over could affect the performance of the window. To ensure that you are ordering the right size it is recommended to speak with an expert or the manufacturer's manual.
Place the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a companion. This should be done in a secure location as the glass could break if it falls. After the sealed unit is secured to the frame reattach any packers on the bottom of the frame and then reinstall the glazing beads back into their original positions. Once you've completed this, give the window an extensive visual inspection to ensure that there are no gaps and that it isn't misaligned.
You may have to add some sealant around the perimeter of the frame to stop it from moving. replacement sealed double glazing units repairmywindowsanddoors is also a good idea to check the thickness of the glass unit. Double-glazed units come in various thicknesses. Making the wrong choice can have a negative impact on the value of your home.
Sealing
Double glazing is an excellent method to increase the efficiency of your home's heating system and improve acoustics by cutting down on the transfer of sound. However, over time, the seals in the glass can be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these instances it is necessary to replace the glass. It is a good idea to employ a double glazing professional who will help you choose the best glass products, make precise measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
The first thing to be done when replacing a sealed unit is to clean the frame. Use an old paintbrush (4 inches is ideal) to clean the frame, taking off dust that has built up over time. It's a good idea to clean the seals that have been installed after the frame has been cleaned. The easiest way to do this is to pull out the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out until you reach the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. Take note of the time frame you'll need to use your new seals. This will help when cutting them.
After the gaskets have been cleaned and the frame is cleaned it's time to install the sealed unit. To ensure the best results when doing this it's a good idea to cut off the beads (the UPVC frame clips that hold the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure the seal is constructed to the right size, and that there aren't any gaps around it.
Once the beads are back in place you can insert the first bead and move on to the next three. You should be careful not to touch the sealed units for a long time afterward, as the silicone sealant needs time to set and harden before you can handle it again. I typically wait 6 hours before handling it, but the sealant setting time will vary.
Finishing
Finishing the project and sealing it is now required after the double-glazed unit has been snugly installed within its frame. This step is not just a physical finalization of the project it also signifies that your home will be well-equipped to stand the test of time with its new safe guardian is installed.
The first step involves cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads strips or other materials that were used to hold the old glass. The frame is then cleaned of any dirt, old sealant and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates either the frame made of timber or aluminium. This is also the time to make any small repairs using wood filler and sanding, if needed. If you have a major issue, you should consult an expert.
The spacer tubes will then be filled with desiccants to take in any moisture that could have been trapped between the two panes during manufacturing or over time. This is a standard procedure for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing machines.
After the spacers are filled with glass, the frame and glass are sealed using a high-performance silicon, specifically designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms an airtight seal that is both flexible and durable and can expand and contract without breaking. It is important to use the right thickness, as any gaps could impact thermal performance. Ask a professional for advice or refer to the manual of the manufacturer if you are unsure about the thickness you should use.
The final step is to apply a secondary sealant, typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or similar products. It's applied to the edges of the frame's exterior which creates a secondary seal that's able to repel moisture and prevent air penetration which can improve energy efficiency.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This is a protective coating that is resistant to the elements, keeping your frame looking brand new for a long time to come. This is a smart investment for the long-term integrity and aesthetics of your frames, particularly if you have period or federation style homes with timber frames that are prone to decay.