Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time, double-glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually known) will break down. This happens because the insulating qualities of the gasses that insulate the glass panes degrade.
If a window has fallen down it's important to replace it to ensure that your home is well-insulated and energy efficient. The task is simple and easy.
Installation
If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will be firmly seated and will fit comfortably within the frame. If the new glazed panel isn't the same thickness as the old one it may be necessary to adjust the 'packers' (usually red or bluish plastic slips) inside the frame. If you're unsure of what to do, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.
A good quality replacement double glazed seal is made to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of 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 of glass to keep them warm and cut down on the amount of heat that escapes your home in cold weather.
However, in some cases, these units break down or develop problems with their seals. This happens when moisture gets into the air cavity and creates condensation. Moisture in the window's cavity is not just unsightly, but also affects the effectiveness and efficiency of the glazed unit.
You can spot a cloudy or misty look between the window panes. This is an indication that the seal between the two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring in to your living space.
The first thing you need to do is remove the glazing beads around the edges of the window. This can be complicated and messy but is well worth the effort as it allows you to get access to the gasket that holds your glass in place. You'll need to take off the beads with care so that they do not break and it's often recommended to ask for help at this point. After the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit to fall slightly out of the frame. Then, using an assistant, hold it in place while you accurately measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential as it will determine what size wedge gasket to cut for your brand new double glazed sealed units.
Checking
Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are commonly called, can fail over time. This normally occurs due to a break in the seal, which allows condensation and moisture to enter the space between the panes. This can affect the way the window can keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar gain inside the window.
Failure of the seal can cause draughts in the home. It is crucial to check regularly your double glazed windows for indications of failure. A misting or a haze of moisture in the glass is a strong indicator that the seal has failed and a replacement unit should be put in place.
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 movement so even just a few millimetres over could affect the performance of the window. To be certain that you are ordering the right size, it's recommended to speak with a professional or the manufacturer's guidelines.
With the help of a person who holds the new unit gently move it into the frame. It is crucial to do this in a secure spot as the glass is fragile and may be thrown out and break. After the sealed unit has been secured to the frame attach any packers that are on the bottom of the frame, and then reinstall the glazing beads back into their original positions. Once you've done this, give the entire window a thorough inspection to ensure there are no gaps or areas of misalignment that could impact its performance.
It may be necessary to apply a bit of sealant around the perimeter edge of the frame in order to prevent it from moving in the future. It is also a good idea to re-check the thickness of the glass unit. Double-glazed units are available in various thicknesses. Using the wrong one could have a negative effect on the u value of your home.
Sealing
Double glazing can improve the thermal efficiency of your home and improve acoustics. However, over time the glass's seals may get worn out, leading to misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these instances, replacement is essential. It's a good idea work with a double glazing professional who can help you choose the best glass products, take precise measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
If you are replacing a sealed unit the first thing to do is clean the frame. You can use an old paint brush (4 inch is the best) to clean the frame to remove dust and cobwebs that will have built up in the frame over time. Once the frame is clean it's best to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. The easiest method for doing this is to remove the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge and then pulling it out until you reach the point that it overlaps with the friction joint. It is also important to make a note of the length that you require for your new seals as it will be helpful when cutting them to size.
Installing the sealed unit is simple once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. It's a great idea to remove the beads (the UPVC frames clips that serve to hold the glasses) and measure the size of them. This will ensure that the seal is built according to the correct dimensions and will not leave gaps around it.
Once the beads are back in place, you can put in the top bead, and then work your way round to the other three. You should be careful not to touch the sealed units for a few minutes following the sealing process as the silicone will require time to set and become hard before you are able to handle it again. I usually wait about 6 hours to handle it, however the silicone sealant's time to set will differ.
Finishing
After the double-glazed unit is snugly in place within its frame and is sealed, it's time to seal and finish. This step is not just an actual finishing touch to the project but also a statement that your home is ready to weather the elements now that its new safe guardian is installed.
The first step involves cleaning the frame and taking out any glazing beads strips, or other materials used to secure the old glass. The frame is cleaned of dust 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 using wood filler and sanding, if necessary. Damages that are severe should be reported to a professional to repair.
The spacer tubes will then be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may be trapped between the two panes during manufacturing or over time. This is a common practice for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automated desiccant dispensing machines.
After the spacers are filled and sealed, the glass is then sealed with a high-performance silicone that's designed to withstand Australia's harsh environment. The sealant creates an airtight barrier that's both flexible and durable and can expand and contract without breaking. It's crucial to select the correct thickness, as any gaps can impact the thermal performance. If you're not sure of the correct thickness to use you should consult a professional or manufacturer's guide.
double glazed sealed unit replacement Repair My Windows And Doors is to add secondary sealant, typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or similar products. It's applied to outside edges of the frame, where it creates a secondary seal capable of repelling moisture and stop air penetration and increase energy efficiency.
The frame is completed with aluminum cladding. This is a coating that is resistant to the elements, and keep your frame looking new for many years to be. It's a smart investment for the long-term durability of your home's frame, particularly in the case historic homes or federation homes, where timber frames are susceptible to rot and degradation.