Notes

Technology Is Making Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units Better Or Worse?
Replacement Double Glazed Units

Over time, double glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually called) will break down. This occurs when the insulating properties of gasses that insulate the glass panes degrade.

It is essential to replace a damaged window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and well-insulated. The process is fairly simple and straightforward.

Installation

If the window has been installed correctly, the new unit will fit firmly in place and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new glazed panel is not the same thickness as your old one you may need to adjust the 'packers (usually blue or red plastic slips) within the frame. If you are unsure how to proceed, consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance.

A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit is made to exacting standards, and should fit your frame with ease. A small mistake can have a major impact on the performance of your window, and must be inspected with care.

Modern double-glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They apply argon between the panes of glass to provide insulation, and reduce the amount heat that escapes from your home during cold winter.

Sometimes, these units can have issues with their seals. This usually occurs when moisture is introduced into the air cavity of the glass and causes condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not just unsightly but also affects the efficiency of the glass unit.

Condensation can be caused by a variety of causes. The most effective way to check is to look for a cloudy or misty appearance between the window panes. This is a sign that the seal between the two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.


The first step to take is to remove the glazing beads from around the edges of your window. It can be difficult and messy, however it's worth it 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 so that they don't break, and it's usually a good idea to ask for assistance at this point. After the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit to drop slightly from the frame and with an assistant, hold it in place while you accurately measure the height, width and the thickness. This is important because it will determine the size of the wedge gasket you will need to cut for the double glazed unit.

Checking

Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are commonly called they can break down in time. It is usually due to leaks in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This will affect the ability of the window to keep cold air out, warm air generated by the home's heating in and solar gain from the sun's rays inside.

The failure of seals can cause draughts to be felt within the home. Double-glazed windows should be examined frequently for indications of failure. If you see water or misting between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is not working and a new unit should be installed.

If you do need to replace a sealed unit, it is vital that the replacement unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames in which 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. To ensure that you're ordering the correct size, it is best to seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's guide.

With a helper holding the new unit gently move it into the frame. This should be done in a secure area as the glass may break if it falls out. After the sealed unit has been fixed to the frame, attach any packers that are on the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads in their original position. Once you've done this, give the whole window a visual examination to ensure that there are no gaps or areas of misalignment that could impact its performance.

You may have to add a small amount of sealant around the edges of the frame to stop it from moving. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. Double-glazed units are available in different thicknesses. If you choose the wrong one, it can have a negative impact on the value of your home.

Sealing

Double glazing is an excellent option to boost your home's thermal efficiency and enhance sound quality by cutting down on the transfer of sound. However, over time the glass's seals may get worn out, leading to misty windows and a decrease in performance. In these situations it is necessary to replace the glass. It's a good idea to consult a double-glazing expert who can help you choose the best glass products, take precise measurements and ensure proper installation.

When replacing a sealed unit, the first step is clean the frame. You can make use of an old paintbrush (4 inch is ideal) to sweep the frame out to remove dust and cobwebs which build up within the frame over time. It's a good idea to clean the new seals once the frame has been cleaned. It is the easiest way to remove the wedge gaskets from the friction joint by placing your hands on the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. You should also make notes of the length you need to make your new seals, as it will be useful when cutting them to size.

Installing the sealed unit is straightforward once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. To get the best results when doing this it's a good idea to remove the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then measure them. Repair My Windows And Doors will ensure the seal is made to the correct size, and that there aren't any gaps around it.

When the beads are back in their place, you can insert the top bead and then work your way round to the remaining three. You should be careful not to touch your sealed units for a few minutes following the sealing process as the silicone will require time to set and harden before you can handle it again. I usually let it sit for about 6 hours prior to handling but this will depend on the silicone sealant's set times.

Finishing

Once the new double glazed unit is snugly in place within its frame, it's time to seal and finish. This is more than a physical conclusion to the project. It's an assurance that your home is prepared to face the elements with its brand new secure guardian securely in its place.

The first step involves cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads, strips or other materials that were used to secure the old glass. The frame is then cleaned of any dirt, sealant or glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates either the timber frame or aluminium frame. It's also a good opportunity to evaluate any damage and make small repairs using wood filler or sanding if necessary. For more serious damage it is recommended to consult a professional.

The spacer tubes are then be filled with desiccants in order to absorb any moisture that might have accumulated between the two panes during manufacturing or over time. This is a common practice for units with warm edges. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automated desiccant dispensing equipment.

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

The final step involves adding secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene, or a similar substance. It is applied to the edges of frames to form a secondary seal. It will ward off moisture and stop air infiltration, thereby increasing energy efficiency.

The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating is able to withstand the weather and keep your frame looking fresh for many years. This is a wise investment for the long-term integrity and the beauty of your home's frames, particularly if you have period or federation style homes that have timber frames that are prone to get rotted.

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