Replacement Double Glazed Units
Double glazed units, or sealed units, as they're called, will get worn out over time. This typically happens because the insulating properties in the inert gas between the glass panes degrade.
It is essential to replace a damaged window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and insulated. Luckily, 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 will fit comfortably within the frame. If the new unit is not the same thickness as the old one, then you might need to alter the 'packers' (usually blue or red slips of plastic) within the frame to ensure that it is properly placed. If you're not sure what to do, consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance.
A good replacement double glazed seal will be made to exacting standards and should fit into your frame with a minimum of hassle. But, even a tiny mistake can have a major impact on the performance of your window, and should therefore be checked carefully.
Modern double glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They utilize argon between the panes of glass to insulate, and reduce the amount heat that escapes your home in cold weather.
However, in some cases, these units can break down or develop problems with their seals. This usually occurs when moisture enters the air cavity of the glass, causing condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not just ugly, but it also reduces the efficiency of the glazed unit.
Look for a fogginess or misty look between your window panes. This could be a sign that the seal between the two glass panes is broken and moisture is leaking into your living spaces.
The first thing to do is remove the glass beads that surround the edges of your window. It can be a bit difficult and messy, however it is worth the effort because you will be able to access the gasket for wedges that holds your glass in position. You'll need to take off the beads with care so that they don't break, and it's usually a good idea to seek assistance at this point. Once the beads have been removed then allow the sealed unit to slide a bit out of the frame. With the help of a person, hold it in place while you take measurements of its size, height and width. This information is essential because it determines the dimensions of the wedge gasket that you need to cut for the double glazed unit.
Checking
Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are usually called, can degrade over time. This is usually due to a break in the seal, which allows condensation and moisture to infiltrate the space between the panes. This affects the ability of the window to keep cold air out, and warm produced by the heating system in, and solar energy from the sun's rays inside.
A seal failure can cause draughts in the home. It is important to regularly check your double glazed windows for signs of failure. The presence of mist or moisture between the glass is an indicator that the seal has failed and a replacement should be installed.
It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the correct size. The uPVC frames which the sealed unit is placed in have a very limited tolerance for moving, so even a few millimetres too big could affect the performance of the window. Consult a professional or the instructions that is provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you get the correct size.
With a helper holding the new unit gently move it into the frame. It is essential that you do this in a secure spot since the glass is fragile and could fall out and break. After the sealed unit has been fixed to the frame, reattach any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then reinstall the glass beads in their original position. Once you've done this, give the whole window a visual examination to ensure that there aren't any gaps or areas of misalignment that could compromise its performance.
It may be necessary to apply a small amount of sealant to the outer edge of the frame to stop it from moving in the future. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is an excellent thing to do. Double glazed units come in different thicknesses. If you choose the wrong one, it can have a negative impact on the value of your home.
Sealing
Double glazing is a fantastic option to boost the efficiency of your home's heating system and improve audio quality by cutting down on the transfer of sound. However, over time the glass's seals may be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these situations it is necessary to replace the glass. It is recommended to collaborate with a professional double glazing installer who can help you choose the appropriate glass, ensure accurate measurements and ensure proper installations.
If you are replacing a sealed unit the first step is clean the frame. Use double glazed sealed unit replacement from the past (4 inches is ideal) to scrub the frame, getting rid of dust that has accumulated over time. Once the frame is clean it's best 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 placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out at 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 aid in cutting them.
Installation of the sealed unit is straightforward once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. It's a good idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that are used to hold the glasses) and measure the size of them. This will ensure the seal is constructed to the right size and there aren't any gaps in it.
After the beads are placed back in, you are able to begin with the top one and work your way to the lower ones. You should be careful 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 can use it again. I usually wait about 6 hours to handle it, but the sealant's time to set will differ.
Finalization
When the new double-glazed unit is snugly in place within its frame, it's time to seal and complete. This step is more than a physical closure to the project; it's an affirmation that your home is prepared to face the elements with its brand new, secure guardian safely in place.
The first step is to clean the frame, taking care to remove any glazing beads or strips that secured the old glass. The frame is clean of dirt and old sealant as well as glazing tape, a process that also rejuvenates the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window. This is also the time to make any small repairs with wood filler and sanding, if needed. For major damage, you should seek out a professional.
The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may have been trapped between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. This is a common practice for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants as well as manual or automatic desiccant dispensers.
After the spacers have been filled and sealed, the glass is then sealed with a highly-performing silicone that is designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates an airtight seal that is both durable and flexible and can expand and contract without breaking. It's crucial to select the right thickness, as any gaps can impact thermal performance. If you're unsure of the right thickness to use, consult with an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.
The final step is to add an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. It's applied to the edges of the frame's exterior and creates a secondary seal that's able to repel moisture and stop air penetration and improve energy efficiency.
The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This is a coating that can withstand the elements, and keep your frame looking like new for many years to be. This is a wise investment to ensure the durability and beauty of your home's frames, especially if you have federation or period homes with timber frames that are susceptible to decay.