Replacement Double Glazed Units
Double-glazed units, or sealed units, as they're known, can wear out over time. 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 that your home is well-insulated and energy efficient. Luckily, the task is easy and straightforward to do at home.
Installation
If the window has been properly installed, the new window will fit firmly in place and sit comfortably inside the frame. If the new unit is not the same thickness as the older one then you may need to modify the existing "packers" (usually red or blue slips of plastic) inside the frame to ensure that it sits properly. If you're unsure of how to do this then consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.
A good quality replacement double glazed sealed unit is made to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of fuss. A minor mistake could have a major impact on the performance of your window.
Modern double-glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They utilize argon between the panes glass to insulate and decrease the amount of heat that escapes from your home during cold winter.
Sometimes, these units have issues with their seals. This happens when moisture gets into the air cavity and results in condensation. The moisture that is absorbed by the windows' cavity is not only unsightly but also affects the efficiency and effectiveness of the glass unit.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of causes. Recommended Internet page to test for it is to look for a hazy or misty appearance 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 glass beads that surround the window edges. This can be a little difficult and messy, but it is worth the effort because it allows you to get access to the gasket that keeps your glass in place. It is important to remove the beads carefully so they don't break. A little help from a friend can be a good idea at this stage. Once the beads are removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it a little to fall out of the frame. With the help of a person, hold it in place while you accurately take measurements of its size, height and width. This information is essential because it will determine the size 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 they can break down over time. This is usually due an opening in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This affects how the window can keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar gain inside the window.
The failure of seals can cause draughts within the home. It is crucial to regularly check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. Moisture or misting in between the glass is an indication that the seal has failed and a replacement unit should be put in place.
If you must replace a sealed unit it is essential that the new one is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is placed have a very small tolerance for movement, so even a few millimetres of movement can affect the performance of the windows. Consult a professional or the guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you purchase the right size.
Insert the new piece of glass into the frame with the help of a friend. It is vital to place it in a secure location as the glass is fragile and may fall out and break. Once the sealed unit is secured in the frame, reattach any packers on the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads in their original positions. Once you have done this give the entire window a thorough examination to make sure there are no gaps or misalignments that could compromise its performance.
You may also need to apply a small amount of sealant to the outer edge of the frame to prevent it from shifting in the future. It is also a good idea to check the thickness of the glass unit. This is crucial since double-glazed units come in different thicknesses, and if you choose the wrong one, it can impact the u-value your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing can boost the thermal efficiency of your home, and provide better acoustics. However, with time, the seals in the glass can be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these instances replacement is required. It is recommended for you to work with a professional double glazing installer who can help choose the best glass products, ensure accurate measurements and ensure proper installations.
When 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 sweep the frame clean by removing dust and cobwebs which build up within the frame over time. Once the frame is clean it's a good idea to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. It is the easiest way to remove gaskets for the wedge from the friction joint by placing your fingers on the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. It is also important to make a note of the length that you require for your new seals since it will be helpful when cutting them to size.
Installing the sealed unit is straightforward after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. It's a good idea take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that hold the glasses) and measure them. This will ensure that the seal is made to the correct dimensions, and that there aren't any gaps in it.
When the beads are back in their place, you can insert the first bead and move on to the next three. Be careful not to touch the sealed units for a few minutes afterward, as the silicone sealant will need some time to set and harden before you can handle it again. I typically wait around 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant setting time will vary.
Finalization
After the double-glazed unit is secure within its frame, it's time to seal and complete. This step is not 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 safe guardian is in place.
The first step is cleaning the frame and taking out any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to hold the old glass. The frame is then cleaned of dirt, sealant or glazing tape. This process also renews the timber frame or aluminium frame. This is also the time to make any minor repairs by using wood filler or sanding, if necessary. The most serious damage should be taken to an expert to repair.
Next, the tubes that are used as spacers are filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may be trapped in-between the two panes of glass during manufacture or over time. This is the standard procedure for warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automated desiccant dispensing devices.
After the spacers have been filled, the glass and frame are sealed using a high-performance silicon, specifically designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant creates an airtight barrier that is extremely flexible and durable and can expand and contract without breaking. It's important to use the correct thickness, since any gaps could impact the thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manual of the manufacturer if you are unsure about the thickness you should use.
The final step is adding secondary sealant. It is typically polyisobutylene, or a similar substance. This is applied along the outside edges of frames to create a secondary seal. It will ward off moisture and stop air infiltration, thereby increasing the efficiency of the energy.
The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating can be able to withstand the elements and keep your frame looking fresh for many years. This is a smart investment to ensure the durability and aesthetics of your frames, especially if you have federation or period homes that have timber frames that are prone to get rotted.