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Replacement Double Glazed Units

Double-glazed units, also known as sealed units as they’re also called, may be damaged over time. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes break down.

If a window has been damaged down, it is essential to replace it to ensure your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. The task is simple and easy to complete at home.

Installation

If the window has been installed correctly the new unit will fit snugly and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new unit is not of the same thickness as the previous one, you may have to adjust the existing “packers” (usually red or blue slips of plastic) in the frame to ensure it is properly placed. If you’re not sure how to proceed, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.

A good quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit will be manufactured to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of hassle. However, a small error can have a major impact on the performance of your window and should therefore be checked with care.

Modern double glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They utilize the argon gas between the panes to insulate and thereby reduce the amount of heat that could escape your home in cold weather.

However, sometimes these units may break down or develop problems with their seals. This happens when moisture enters the air cavity and causes condensation. The condensation in your window is not only unsightly, but it also reduces the effectiveness of the glazed unit.

Look for a fogginess or misty look between the window panes. This indicates that the seal between two panes is broken and moisture is leaking in to your living space.

The first thing to do is remove the glazing beads around the window edges. It can be tricky and messy, but it is worth the effort because you will have access to the gasket for wedges that keeps your glass in place. You will need to remove the beads with care to ensure that they do not break and it’s often an excellent idea to ask for assistance at this stage. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to drop slightly from the frame and with a helper hold it in place while you accurately measure the height, width and the thickness. This information is essential as it will help you determine the size wedge gasket you need to cut for your new double-glazed sealed units.

Checking

Double glazing units or sealed units, as they are commonly called and can fail in time. This usually happens due to a break in the seal, which allows moisture and condensation to get into the space between the panes. This affects the ability of the window to keep cold air out, warmth produced by the heating system in and solar gain from the sun’s rays inside.

A seal failure can cause draughts to be felt in your home. It is crucial to check regularly your double-glazed windows for indications of failure. If you notice moisture or mists between the glass, it is an indication that the seal is failing and a replacement unit must be installed.

If you must replace a sealed unit it is essential that the replacement unit is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit is placed have a tiny tolerance for movement, meaning that even a few millimetres of movement can affect the performance of the windows. Get advice from a professional or follow the guide that is provided by the manufacturer to ensure you order the correct size.

Place the new unit into the frame with the help of a friend. It is crucial to do this in a secure place because the glass is fragile and may be thrown out and break. After the sealed unit is securely in the frame re-attach any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then put the glass beads back into their original position. Once you have done this give the whole window a visual examination to ensure that there aren’t any gaps or misalignments that could compromise its performance.

You may have to add a small amount of sealant around the perimeter of the frame to stop it from moving. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. This is essential since double glazed units are available in different thicknesses, and using the wrong thickness can impact the u-value your home’s insulation.

Sealing

Double glazing is a great option to boost your home’s thermal efficiency and provide improved audio quality by cutting down on the transfer of sound. Over time, the seals of the glass may wear out resulting in condensation or drooping windows. In these instances replacement is needed. It’s a good idea consult a double-glazing expert who can help you select the best glass products, take accurate measurements and ensure proper installation.

The first thing to be done when replacing a sealed unit is to clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is ideal) to scrub the frame, removing dust that has built up over time. When the frame is clean, it’s best to give the new seals a thorough clean too. Repair My Windows And Doors is easiest to remove the wedge gaskets from the friction joint by placing your fingers along the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. You should also make a note of the length you need for your new seals as it will be useful when cutting them to size.

Installation of the sealed unit is straightforward once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. It’s a great idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that hold the glasses) and measure the size of them. This will ensure the seal is constructed to the correct dimensions and there aren’t any gaps around it.

After the beads are placed back in, you are able to begin with the top one and work your way down to the other. After sealing the units, you must not contact them for several hours as the silicone sealant must harden and set. I typically wait around 6 hours to handle it, but the sealant’s time to set will differ.

Finalization

When the new double-glazed unit is snugly in place within its frame and is sealed, it’s time to seal it and then finish. This is more than a physical closure to the project; it’s an assurance that your home is prepared to face the elements with its brand new secure guardian securely in place.

The first step is to clean the frame taking care to remove any glazing beads or strips that secured the old glass. The frame is then cleaned of any dirt, old sealant and glazing tape. This process also renews the timber frame or aluminium frame. This is also the moment to make any small repairs with wood filler and sanding, if necessary. If you have a major issue it is recommended to seek out an expert.

Next, the tubes that are used as spacers are filled with desiccants in order to absorb any moisture that might be trapped between the two panes of glass in the course of manufacture or later on. This is a typical procedure for units with warm edges. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants as well as manual or automated dispensers of desiccant.

After the spacers have been filled with glass, the frame and glass are sealed using a high-performance silicon, specifically designed to withstand Australia’s tough climate. The sealant creates an airtight barrier that’s both durable and flexible that can expand and contract without breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness as any gaps can affect the thermal performance. Consult a professional or the manufacturer’s manual if you are unsure about the right thickness for your.

The final step is to apply a an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or similar products. This is applied along the edges of frames to create an additional seal. It is able to repel moisture and block air infiltration, improving the efficiency of the 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 in the long-term stability of your home’s frame, particularly in the case of period or federation homes where timber frames are prone to decay and rot.