Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are often known) may break down. This usually happens when the insulating properties of the inert gas that is between the glass panes break down.
It is essential to replace a broken window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and well-insulated. The task is easy and straightforward.
Installation
If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will fit firmly in place and sit comfortably inside the frame. If the new window isn't the same thickness as the old one it may be necessary to adjust the 'packers' (usually blue or red plastic slips) inside the frame. If you're unsure of how to proceed, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.
A good replacement double glazed sealed unit will be made to exacting standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of hassle. But, even a tiny mistake can have an enormous impact on the performance of your window and should therefore be checked carefully.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic energy efficient addition to any home. They use an argon gas layer between the panes to insulate and thereby reduce the amount of heat that can escape your property during cold winter months.
Sometimes, these units can develop problems with their seals. This happens when moisture enters the air cavity and creates condensation. The presence of moisture in your window is not just unsightly but also affects the efficiency of the glazed unit.
Condensation can be caused by a range of factors and the best way to check is to look for a hazy or misty look between the windows. This could be a sign that the seal between the two panes of glass has been broken and moisture is leaking into your living spaces.
The first step is to take the glazing beads off around the edges of your window. This can be difficult and messy, but it is worth the effort since it allows you to get access to the wedge gasket which holds your glass in place. It is essential to remove the beads with care so that they don't fall off. Asking for help can be beneficial at this point. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to drop slightly out of the frame. With help from a person, keep it in position while you precisely measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential because it will determine the size of the wedge gasket that must be cut to accommodate the brand new double-glazed sealed unit.
Checking
Double glazing units or sealed units as they are commonly called they can break down over time. This is usually due to a leak in the seal that allows moisture and condensation into the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to block out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar gain inside.
Failing seals can also cause draughts to be felt inside the home. Double-glazed windows should be examined frequently for signs of failure. The presence of mist or moisture between the glass is a strong indicator that the seal has failed and a replacement is required.
If you do need to replace a sealed unit it is crucial that the new unit is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit is placed have a very small tolerance for movement, which means that even a few millimetres can affect the performance of the windows. To be certain that you are ordering the correct size, it is best to consult a professional or the manufacturer's guidelines.
Place the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a partner. replacement seals for upvc windows is vital to place it in a secure location since the glass is fragile and may be thrown out and break. Once the sealed unit is secure in the frame, reconnect any packers on the bottom of the frame and then place the glazing beads back in their original position. Once you've completed this make sure you give the window an inspection thoroughly to ensure that there aren't any gaps and that it is not misaligned.
It is also possible to apply a small amount of sealant around the perimeter edge of the frame in order to prevent it from moving in the future. Re-checking the thickness of the unit is recommended. This is crucial since double-glazed units are available in different thicknesses, and if you choose the wrong one, it can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing is a fantastic method to increase the efficiency of your home's heating system and provide improved audio quality by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time the seals on the glass can be worn out, resulting in condensation or drooping windows. In these cases, replacement is necessary. It's a good idea to work with a double glazing expert who can help you select the best glass products, take accurate measurements, and ensure proper installation.
The first thing that needs to be done when replacing the sealed unit is to clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is ideal) to clean the frame, getting rid of dust that has built up over time. When the frame is clean, it's best to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. It is easiest to remove gaskets for the wedge from the friction joint by placing your fingers along the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. You should also take an outline of the length you need for your new seals as it will be helpful when cutting them to size.
Installation of the sealed unit is straightforward once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. It's a good idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that hold the glasses) and then measure them. This will ensure that the seal is constructed to the right size and will not leave any gaps around it.
Once the beads are back in place, you can put in the top bead and then proceed to the other three. Be careful not to touch the sealed units for a while 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 before handling but this will vary based on your silicone sealant's setting time.
Finalization
The sealing and finalization of the project is now necessary once the new double-glazed unit has been installed securely within its frame. This step is more than a physical conclusion to the project; it's an assurance that your home is ready to weather the elements with a new safe guardian in the right place.
The first step is cleaning the frame and taking out any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to secure the old glass. Then, the frame is free of dirt and sealants that have been used for years, as well as glazing tape, a process which also renews the timber or aluminium of the window's frame. It's also a good time to look over any damages and make small repairs by using wood filler or sanding when necessary. Damages that are severe should be reported to a professional to repair.
The spacer tubes will then be filled with desiccants in order to take in any moisture that could be trapped between the two panes during manufacturing or over time. This is a standard procedure for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants, as well as manual and automated dispensers for desiccant.
After the spacers have been filled and sealed, the glass is then sealed with a high-performance silicone designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms a barrier that's durable and flexible that can expand and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It is crucial to choose the right thickness since any gaps can affect thermal performance. Consult a professional or the manual of the manufacturer for more information on the thickness to use.
The final step is to add secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene or another similar material. This is applied along the edges of frames to form an additional seal. It will ward off moisture and stop air infiltration, improving the efficiency of energy.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating can withstand the weather and keep your frame looking brand new for many years. It's a smart investment for the long-term integrity of your home's frame particularly in the case period or federation homes where timber frames are susceptible to rot and degradation.