Activity

Replacing Double Glazed Units

Double-glazed units can be replaced to reduce the loss of heat and noise as well as lower heating costs. With modern coatings and argon, or krypton gas fills, they can be extremely energy efficient.

The new unit, crafted to exact measurements, awaits its place and calls for care and precision. This moment is a moment that stops the world and puts your effort into perspective.

Then, remove the old unit

It is important to remove the old unit to ensure that your new double-glazed window is made to exact measurements. Clean the frame with care to remove dust, dirt, or old sealant. Repair any damage that is present. Small repairs can be made by using wood filler or sanding, while major damage may require professional repair.

After the glass is removed, it is essential to measure its width, height, and thickness. The best method for doing this is to take out the glazing beads that hold the unit. This is a delicate procedure that requires patience and care. Take your time and wear safety gear to avoid shards and slips.

Begin by taking off the bottom of the glazing strip using a chisel that is sharp, or a wide-bladed, sharp screwdriver. After the bead is removed, it is advisable to get help from a person who can hold the sealed unit as you remove the remaining beads. This is because the device could easily be thrown out of the frame and break.

After removing all the beads, it is crucial to measure the width, height, and the thickness of the present unit. Repair My Windows And Doors can then be used to accurately construct the replacement unit you want for your home. It can also be used as a reference to ensure that the new unit is sized correctly for the frame. This is crucial because a misfit will not only result in the need to dismantle and rebuild the entire window, but it will also impact its efficiency and performance. This is especially important in Australia where homes are often exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Preparing the Frame

If you are replacing a fixed sliding door window with a fixed sash or opening sash, make sure that the new unit is the proper size. UPVC frames offer little room for movement and a double glazing unit that’s a few millimeters too big will simply not fit. To ensure that measurements are accurate take care to measure accurately and seek the advice of an expert.

Remove the glass from the frame when you’re certain that the replacement is the right size and is properly fitted. Wear safety equipment such as gloves and work in a place that is well-lit to avoid injuries from glass shards. Use a putty knife remove the glazing beads or strips, which secure the glass within the frame, from around the edges of the pane. The glass is fragile and you must be careful to avoid slipping or pulling the frame.

Once the frame is ready to be sealed for the new double glazing unit, check whether it is in a position to open and close smoothly. It should be a good fit, but you can adjust it if you need to by adding or removing packers. If the frame is for sliding glass doors it is possible to add packers to the top of the hinge as well as the opposite corner to avoid the sash catching when it opens.

Then clean the frame. Remove any old glazing tape or sealant If necessary. Check for any damage, and make minor repairs if necessary by using wood filler or sanding. A final inspection and cleaning will make the frame ready for replacement, ensuring it will last for a a lifetime of enduring protection against the harsh Australian climate.

Lifting the New Unit

Over time, double-glazed sealed units (or a ‘sealed unit’ as it is commonly known) may develop problems like moisture between panes or misting. If this happens, the efficiency of your window can be diminished, letting cold air in and letting warm air from your heating system to escape, leading to high energy bills and loss of comfort.

This type of failure in seals is usually caused by age or general wear and tear or harsh chemical cleaners that degrade the sealing material. Sometimes, the cause is due to shrinking and expanding of the glass during the changing seasons and changes in temperature in the home.

After the frame has been cleaned and prepared and sanded, you can begin lifting the new unit into place. This is a thrilling step, as you’ve just made a real difference to your home, enhancing its warmth in the winter months and cooling it in summer, whilst also helping to reduce the cost of energy.

Before securing the unit, it is crucial to make sure that the new unit fits into the frame. A little bit of care in this phase will help prevent any damage to the frame and also the glass.

If your windows use glazing tape or sealant it’s time to apply a bead around the perimeter of the glass and frame, creating a strong barrier against moisture and air infiltration. Make sure to seal the sealant with care but not so much that it stresses the glass or frame. Enjoy your newly installed double-glazed windows and give yourself a pat on the back for an excellent job!

Secure the Unit

With the new unit sitting snugly in the frame and a fresh bead of sealant covering its perimeter it is the moment that signifies the end of your project. The unit is now secure to withstand Australia’s diverse weather which guarantees warmth in winter and coolness in summer. This is the moment the precise measurements and removal are validated as a proof that the unit was crafted to exact dimensions.

It is crucial to find the right balance between securing the unit without overstressing the glass. If it’s too loose, the unit could be unable to seal its airtight seal. If it’s too tight, it could damage the frame or warp the material. Each screw should be put in its original position, and turned just enough to ensure that the unit is held securely without applying excessive pressure.

This is the last step of a project which will increase the energy efficiency of a house, comfort, and appearance. With the brand new double-glazed unit sitting snugly in the frame and securing a fresh bead of sealant around the perimeter, this is the moment that signifies the end of your work.

The space between the glass panes is filled with either argon or a desiccant. Argon, unlike air, has a lower thermal conductivity which reduces heat transfer. Desiccants also help to absorb moisture from the air, which prevents mould and condensation in the frame. The spacer bar, typically made of aluminium, is an essential part of the insulation system. The aluminum bar not only blocks heat transfer, but also helps keep the edge warm of the window that is insulated to avoid condensation.

Checking Your Work

After you’ve put in the new unit and put an ounce of silicone sealant around the edge it is essential to let it sit and set. Don’t disturb it! It will take at least four hours for the silicone sealant to reach its maximum strength and create an impenetrable barrier. While you are waiting, take the time to visually evaluate your work and see if you are able to identify any gaps or issues that could compromise the efficiency or appearance of the product.

It’s also a good opportunity to check the seals and frame to determine if there are any signs of damage. You can also determine if the entire window should be replaced. A damaged seal could cause a significant impact on the efficiency of your home, causing drafts and cold spots. It can also allow ultraviolet rays into the home, causing fade of furniture and decreasing the lifespan of curtains and carpets.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, your double glazing may require replacement. It will help you save money on your energy bills and create a more relaxed and comfortable living space.

It is a complex and labor-intensive job that requires the correct equipment, precise measurement and careful preparation. It is not an DIY task and should be handled by a professional in uPVC windows and doors who can ensure the proper fitting of the replacement unit, and ensure your home is protected from the elements. Their experience will ensure the double-glazed unit you choose is both efficient and quiet and provides warmth in winter and cooling in summer. This will shield your home from weather damage.