Replacement Double Glazed Units

Over time, double-glazed units (or sealed units as they are often known) will break down. This occurs when the insulating qualities of the gasses that insulate the glass panes break down.

If a window has fallen down, it is essential to replace the unit to ensure your home is fully insulated and energy efficient. The task is easy and straightforward to do at home.

Installation

If the window was fitted correctly, the new unit should fit comfortably and firmly within the frame. If the new window is not the same thickness that your old one was it may be necessary to adjust the 'packers (usually blue or red plastic slips) within the frame. Consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer if you're not sure.

A high-quality replacement seals for upvc windows double-glazed sealed window is manufactured to the highest standards, and should fit into your frame with ease. But, even a tiny mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window and should therefore be checked attentively.

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 in between the panes glass to insulate, and reduce the amount heat that escapes from your home during cold winter.

However, there are times when these units can fail or have problems with their seals. This typically happens when moisture enters the air space of the glass and causes condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in the windows' cavity is not only unsightly but also affects the effectiveness and efficiency of the glazed unit.

Check for a fogginess or misty appearance in between the window panes. This is a sign that the seal between two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.

The first thing to do is remove the glass beads that surround the window edges. It can be tricky and messy, but it is worth the effort because you will be able to access the gasket for wedges that holds your glass in position. It is important to remove the beads with care so they don't break. Asking for help can be beneficial at this point. After the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit repair near me unit to fall back slightly from the frame and with a helper hold it in place while you accurately measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential as it will help you determine the size wedge gasket to cut for your brand new double-glazed sealed units.

Checking

Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are usually called, can degrade over time. This normally occurs due to a breach in the seal which allows condensation and moisture to infiltrate the space between the panes. This will affect how well the window can keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar heat inside.

A seal failure can cause draughts within the home. Double glazed windows should be checked frequently for indications of failure. Moisture or misting in between the glass is a strong indication that the total seal repairs has failed and a replacement window Seals near me unit should be put in place.

It is crucial to replace the sealed unit with the correct size. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is set in are not tolerant of movement so even tiny millimetres of excess can affect the performance of the window. To ensure that you're ordering the right size it is best to consult an expert or the manufacturer's manual.

Place the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a companion. This should be done in a secure place as the glass can break if it falls out. Once the sealed unit is secured to the frame reconnect any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then put the glass beads in their original position. Once you have done this give the entire window a visual examination to ensure that there aren't any gaps or misalignments that could compromise its performance.

You may also need to apply a small amount of sealant around the perimeter edge of the frame in order to prevent it from moving in the future. Checking the thickness of the unit is also a good thing to do. Double-glazed units come in different thicknesses. If you choose the wrong one, it can have a negative impact on the u value of your home.

Sealing

Double glazing can boost the thermal efficiency of your home and also improve acoustics. However, over time the glass's seals may get worn out, leading to misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these situations it is necessary to replace the glass. It is recommended to consult an experienced double glazing seal repair glazing contractor who can assist you in selecting the appropriate glass, ensure accurate measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.

The first thing that needs to be done when replacing the sealed unit is to clean the frame. You can use an old paint brush (4 inches is the ideal size) to sweep the frame out by removing dust and cobwebs that have built up in the frame over time. It's a great idea to clean the new seals after the frame has been cleaned. The most efficient method to do this is to pull out the Wedge gaskets by putting your fingers on the edge and then pulling it out at the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. Note down how long you need the new seals. This will help when cutting them.

Once the gaskets are clean and the frame cleaned up it's time to install the sealed unit. It's a great idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that hold the glasses) and then measure the size of them. This will ensure that the seal is built to the correct size and will not leave gaps around it.

After the beads are reinserted, you can start with the top one and move down to the other. Be careful not to touch your sealed units for a long time afterward as the silicone sealant will need some time to set and become hard before you are able to handle it again. I typically leave it for about 6 hours prior handling but this will vary based on your silicone sealant's setting time.

Finishing

Sealing and finishing the project is now necessary once the new double-glazed unit is been snugly installed within its frame. This isn't just an aesthetic finishing touch to the project but also a statement that your home will be prepared to withstand the elements with its new secured guardian is installed.

The first step is to clean the frame, taking care to remove any glazing strips or beads that bonded the old glass. The frame is then scrubbed clean of dirt, old sealant and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates the frame made of timber or aluminium. It's also a good opportunity to assess any damage and make small repairs, using wood filler or sanding when needed. For major damage you must consult a professional.

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 a 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 highly-performing silicone designed to withstand the harsh conditions of Australia's climate. The sealant creates a barrier that's both strong and flexible, able to expand and expand without becoming brittle or breaking. It's important to use the right thickness, as any gaps could impact the thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manufacturer's guide in case you're not sure about the thickness to use.

The final step is to apply a an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. This is applied to the outside edges of the frame and creates a secondary seal able to repel moisture and block air from entering which can improve energy efficiency.

The frame is finished with aluminum cladding. This protective coating will endure the elements and keep your frame looking brand 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 prone to decay and rot.