Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually known) will break down. This usually happens when the insulating properties of the inert gas between glass panes breaks down.
When a window has broken down it's important to replace it to ensure your home is well-insulated and energy efficient. The process is fairly simple and straightforward.
Installation
If the window was put in correctly, the new unit should fit comfortably and firmly inside the frame. If the new glazed window is not the same thickness as the old one, you may have to adjust the 'packers (usually red or bluish plastic slips) in the frame. Check with your installer or the instructions from the manufacturer if you're uncertain.
A high-quality replacement double-glazed unit is constructed to exacting standards, and should fit in your frame with minimal fuss. A minor mistake could have a major impact on your window's performance.
Modern double-glazed units are a great energy efficient addition to any home. They use an argon gas layer between the panes to provide insulation and reduce the amount of heat that could escape from your home during cold winter months.
Sometimes, these units develop issues with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture is introduced into the air space of the glass and creates condensation between the panes. Moisture in the window's cavity 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 best way to check is to look for a cloudy or misty look between the windows. This is a sign that the seal between the two panes of glass has been broken and moisture is flowing into your living spaces.
The first step is to take off the glazing beads around the edges of your window. This can be a little difficult and messy but is well worth the effort because it allows you to get access to the gasket that keeps 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. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to fall back slightly out of the frame. Then, using help from a person, keep it in position while you precisely measure the width, height and also the thickness. This is important because it determines the dimensions of the wedge gasket you will need to cut for the brand new double-glazed sealed unit.
Checking
Double glazing units or sealed units, as they are often referred to, can fail in time. It is usually due to leaks in the seal, which lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This affects how the window can keep out cold air, heat produced by the heating system inside the home and solar gain inside the window.
A faulty seal can also cause draughts to be felt in the home. Double glazed windows should be checked frequently for indications of failure. If you see 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 crucial to replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames which the sealed unit is placed in are not tolerant of movement so even tiny millimetres of excess can have an impact on the performance of the window. To ensure that you're getting the right size, it's best to seek advice from a professional or the manufacturer's manual.
With the help of a friend holding the new piece, gently slide it into place in the frame. It is vital to make this move in a secure place because the glass is fragile and may fall out and break. Once the sealed unit is secure within the frame, re-attach any packers at the bottom of the frame and then put the glazing beads back into their original positions. After you've completed this take the window for a thorough visual inspection to ensure there are no gaps, and that it is not misaligned.
You may have to add some sealant around the edges of the frame to stop it from moving. It is also a good idea to re-check the thickness the glass unit. This is important as double-glazed units come in various thicknesses, and using the wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
replacement seals for upvc windows glazing can improve the thermal efficiency of your home, and improve audio. However, with time, the glass's seals may be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these instances replacement is required. It is a good idea to work with a double glazing professional who can help you choose the best glass products, take accurate measurements, and ensure proper installation.
When replacing a sealed unit the first thing to do is clean the frame. Use an old paintbrush (4 inches is the ideal size) to scrub the frame, getting rid of dust that has built up over time. It's a good idea to clean the new seals after the frame has been cleaned. The most efficient method to do this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out until you reach the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. You should also make an outline of the length that you need for your new seals since it will be useful when cutting them to size.
Installation of the sealed unit is easy after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. To get the best results when doing this, it's recommended to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure that the seal is constructed to the right size and will not leave gaps around it.
After the beads are put back in, you can 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 while afterward as the silicone sealant will require time to set and become hard before you can handle it again. I usually let it sit for about 6 hours before handling but this could differ based on your silicone sealant's setting time.
Finishing
The sealing and finalization of the project is now necessary once the new double-glazed unit is been installed securely within its frame. This is more than just a physical closure to the project. It's an assurance that your house is ready to weather the elements with a new, secure guardian safely in place.
The first step involves cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads, strips or other materials used to fix the old glass. Then, the frame is free of dirt and sealants that have been used for years, as well as glazing tape, a procedure which also renews the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window. It is also a good time to evaluate any damages and make small repairs using wood filler or sanding if necessary. For major damage, you should consult a professional.
The spacer tubes are then be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that might have been trapped between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. This is the standard procedure for a warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automated desiccant dispensing equipment.
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. This sealant forms a barrier that is both strong and flexible, able to expand and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It is important to use the right thickness, as any gaps can affect the thermal performance. If you're unsure of the correct thickness to use you should consult a professional or manufacturer's guide.
The final step is to add secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene or a similar material. This is applied along the edges of frames to form an additional seal. It can repel moisture and stop air infiltration, thereby increasing the efficiency of energy.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This is a protective coating that can withstand the elements, keeping your frame looking like new for a long time to be. It's a wise investment in the long-term durability of your home's frame, particularly in the case of period or federation homes where timber frames are prone to decay and rot.