Replacement Double Glazed Units

Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually known) will break down. This typically happens due to the insulating properties of the inert gas between glass panes breaks down.

If a window has been damaged down, it is essential to replace it to ensure your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. Luckily, the task is easy and straightforward to do at home.

Installation

If the window was put in correctly, the new window will fit snugly and securely within the frame. If the new window is not the same thickness as your old one, you may have to adjust the 'packers' (usually blue or red plastic slips) inside the frame. If you're not sure how to replace rubber seal on upvc door to do this then consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance.

A good replacement double glazed seal will be manufactured to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with a minimum of hassle. A small error can have a huge impact on the performance of your window.

Modern double glazed units are a great energy efficient addition to any home. They use the argon gas between the panes in order to insulate and thus reduce the amount of heat that could escape your property during cold winter months.

Sometimes, these units develop issues with their seals. This usually occurs when moisture gets into the air space of the glass, causing condensation between the panes. The condensation in your window is not just ugly however it also decreases the efficiency of the glass unit.

Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors and the best method to test for it is to look for a hazy or misty appearance between the window panes. This is a sign that the seal between two panes is broken and moisture is leaking in to your living space.

The first thing you need to do is remove the glazing beads around the window edges. It can be tricky and messy, but it's worth it as you will be able to access the wedge gasket that holds the glass in place. It is crucial to remove the beads carefully so that they don't fall off. It is advisable to ask for help. be a good idea at this point. Once the beads are 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 accurately measure its width, height and thickness. This is important because it determines the dimensions of the wedge gasket you need to cut for the double glazed unit.

Checking

Double glazing units or sealed units as they are usually called, can break down over time. This is usually due to an opening in the seal, which lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This can affect the way the window is able to keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system within the home and solar gain inside the window.

Failing seals can also cause draughts to be felt within the home. It is crucial to check your double-glazed windows for signs of failure. If you see water or mists between the glass, this is a sign that the seal is failing and a replacement unit must be installed.

It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the correct size. The upvc window seal replacement frames which the sealed unit is placed in are not tolerant of moving, so even a few millimetres too big could affect the performance of the window. Get advice from a professional or follow the guide supplied by the manufacturer to ensure that you purchase the right size.

Slide the new unit into the frame with the help of a friend. This must be done in a secure place as the glass can break if it falls out. After the sealed unit is secured in the frame, reconnect any packers that are at the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads back in their original position. After you have completed this take the window for an inspection thoroughly to ensure there are no gaps and that it is not misaligned.

It may be necessary to add a bead of sealant to the perimeter edge of the frame to prevent it from moving in future. It is recommended to re-check the thickness of the glass unit. This is important as double-glazed units are available in different thicknesses, and using the wrong thickness could affect the u-value of your home's insulation.

Sealing

Double glazing is an excellent method to increase the efficiency of your home's heating system and improve audio quality by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time, the seals on the glass may get worn out, leading to condensation or drooping windows. In these instances replacement sealed window units is required. It's a good idea employ a double glazing professional who can help you choose the best glass products, make precise measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.

If you are replacing a sealed window glass replacement unit, the first thing you need to do is clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is the best) to clean the frame, taking off dust that has built up over time. Once the frame is clean it's a good idea to give the new seals a clean too. It is easiest to remove the wedge gaskets from the friction joint by placing your fingers on the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. Take note of the time frame you'll need to use the new seals. This will help when cutting them.

Once the gaskets are cleaned and the frame is clean, it's time to install the sealed unit. To get the best results when doing this, it's best to remove the beads (the UPVC frame clips that support the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure that the seal is built to the correct size and will not leave any gaps around it.

After the beads are in place, you can put in the top bead, and then proceed to the next three. You should be careful not to touch the sealed units for a long time following the sealing process as the silicone will need some time to set and become hard before you can use it again. I typically leave it for about 6 hours prior handling, but this can depend on the silicone sealant's setting times.

Finalization

Once the new double glazed unit is secure within its frame and is sealed, it's time to seal it and then finish. This isn't just an aesthetic finish to the project, but also a statement that your home will be ready to weather the elements after the 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 fix the old glass. The frame is cleaned of dirt and sealants that have been used for years, as well as glazing tape, a procedure that also rejuvenates the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window Gasket repair. This is also the time to make any small repairs by using wood filler or sanding, if needed. Damages that are severe should be reported to a professional to repair.

The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants in order to absorb any moisture that might have accumulated between the two panes during production or over time. This is a typical procedure for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants, as well as manual and automated dispensers of desiccant.

After the spacers have been filled with the spacers, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone, designed to tolerate Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates a barrier that's robust and flexible that can expand and expand without becoming brittle or breaking. It is essential to choose the right thickness, as any gaps can impact the thermal performance. If you're unsure of the proper thickness seek advice from an expert or a manufacturer's guide.

The last step is to apply an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. It's applied to edges of the frame's exterior and creates a secondary seal that's able to repel moisture and stop air penetration and increase energy efficiency.

Then, the frame is coated with aluminum cladding. It's a protective coating that can withstand the elements, and keep your frame looking new for a long time to come. This is a wise investment for the long-term integrity and beauty of your home's frames, especially if you have federation or period homes with wooden frames that are susceptible to decay.