Replacement Double Glazed Units
Double glazed units, or sealed units as they're also known, can wear out over time. This is usually the case because the insulating properties in the inert gas that is between the glass panes break down.
If a window has been damaged down, it's crucial to replace the window to ensure your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. The task is easy and straightforward.
Installation
If the window has been installed correctly, the new unit will be firmly seated and will fit comfortably within the frame. If the new unit isn't of the same thickness as the older one then you may need to modify the existing "packers" (usually blue or red slips of plastic) inside the frame to ensure that it is properly placed. If you're not sure what to do, consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.
A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit is constructed to exacting standards, and should fit into your frame with no hassle. A small mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window, and should therefore be checked with care.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic addition to any home. They are energy efficient and can save you money. They use a layer of argon gas between the panes to insulate and reduce the amount of heat that will escape from your home during cold winter months.
However, sometimes these units fail or have problems with their seals. This happens when moisture enters the air cavity and results in condensation. The presence of moisture in your window is not just ugly however it also decreases the effectiveness of the glazed unit.
You can spot a cloudy or misty appearance in between your window panes. This is a sign that the seal between the two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.
The first step to take is to remove the glazing beads around the edges of your window. It can be tricky and a bit messy but is well worth the effort because it allows you to get access to the wedge gasket that keeps your glass in place. It is necessary to remove the beads with care so that they don't break and it's often a good idea to ask for assistance at this point. After the beads have been removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it a little to fall out of the frame. With a helper to hold it in place while you accurately take measurements of its size, height and width. This is crucial 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 in time. repairmywindowsanddoors happens due to a breach in the seal, which allows moisture and condensation to enter the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to keep out cold air, heat produced by the heating system in the home and solar gain inside.
Failing seals can also cause draughts within the home. It is crucial to check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. If you notice moisture or mists between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is not working and a new unit should be installed.
It is important that you replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit is installed have a tiny tolerance for movement, meaning that even a few millimetres of movement can impact the performance of the windows. Get advice from a professional or follow the guide supplied by the manufacturer to ensure that you order the correct size.
Slide the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a companion. It is essential that you make this move in a secure location as the glass is fragile and may break or fall out. After the sealed unit is secure within the frame, re-attach any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then place the glazing beads back in their original positions. Once you've completed this take the window for an inspection thoroughly to ensure there aren't any gaps and that it is not misaligned.
It is possible to apply a small amount of sealant around the edges of the frame to stop it from moving. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is a good thing to do. Double-glazed units are available in different thicknesses. If you choose the wrong one, it could have a negative effect on the value of your home.
Sealing
Double glazing can improve the thermal efficiency of your home and offer better audio. However, with time, the seals in the glass can wear down resulting in misted windows and a reduction in performance. In these cases, replacement is necessary. It is a good idea to employ a double glazing professional who can help you choose the best glass products, make precise measurements and ensure proper installation.
If you are replacing a sealed unit, the first step is clean the frame. You can use an old paint brush (4 inch is ideal) to clean the frame to remove dust and cobwebs that will build up in the frame over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's a good idea to give the new seals a thorough clean too. The easiest method for doing this is to pull out the gaskets on the Wedge by placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out at the point where it is in contact with the friction joint. You should also take notes of the length you require for your new seals since it will be helpful in cutting them to the required size.
Once the gaskets are cleaned and the frame cleaned up it's time for the sealed unit. To ensure the best results from this, it's best to cut off the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure that the seal is built to the correct size and won't leave any 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 remaining three. Be careful not to touch your sealed units for a while afterward, as the silicone sealant will need some time to set and harden before you are able to handle it again. I usually wait about 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant's setting time can vary.
Finishing
After the double-glazed unit is securely seated within its frame It's time to seal it and then finish. This isn't just an aesthetic finishing touch to the project but also a statement that your home will be well-equipped to stand the test of time now that its new safe guardian is installed.
The first step is cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to fix the old glass. The frame is then free of dirt, old sealant, and glazing tape, a procedure that also revitalizes the wood or aluminium of the window's frame. It's also a good time to look over any damage and make small repairs, using wood filler or sanding if required. If you have a major issue it is recommended to seek out an expert.
The tubes that are used as spacers are filled with desiccants in order to absorb any moisture that might be trapped in-between the two glass panes during manufacture or over time. This is a standard practice for warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants, as well as manual and automated dispensers of desiccant.
After the spacers have been filled with glass, it is sealed with a high performance silicone designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates a barrier that's both durable and flexible that can expand and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It's crucial to select the right thickness, as any gaps could affect thermal performance. Ask a professional for advice or refer to the manufacturer's guide in case you're not sure about the right thickness for your.
The final step is to add secondary sealant, which is typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or a similar product. It is applied to the edges of frames to form an additional seal. It will ward off moisture and prevent air infiltration, thus increasing energy efficiency.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating will withstand the weather and keep your frame looking new for a long time. It's a smart investment for the long-term integrity of your home's frame particularly in the case of federation or period homes where timber frames are susceptible to rot and degradation.