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Why Replacement Sealed Double Glazing Units Is More Difficult Than You Imagine
Replacing Double Glazed Units

Replacing double glazed units is a home improvement task which can significantly reduce heat loss, enhance noise insulation and lower heating costs. With modern coatings and argon or Krypton gas fills they are also very energy efficient.

The new unit, made according to precise measurements, awaits its moment and demands attention and precision. This is the moment that stops the world and puts your effort into perspective.

Remove the Old Unit

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

Once the glass is removed, it's crucial to measure its height, width, and thickness. The best way to do this is by prising out the glass beads that bind the unit. This is a delicate process that requires patience and care. It is recommended that you take your time and wear safety equipment to protect yourself from unexpected shards of glass and accidental slips.


Start by stripping the bottom of the glazing strip with the sharp end of a chisel or a wide-bladed, sharp screwdriver. Once the bead has been removed, it's recommended to seek assistance from someone to hold the sealed unit as you remove the remaining beads. This is because the unit can easily be thrown out of the frame and break.

After all the beads have been removed, it's essential to carefully measure the width, height and thickness of the unit that is currently in use. You can use the measurements to build the replacement unit. Additionally, it will also give you a direction to ensure that the new unit is a good fit in the frame. This is important because a mistake will not only result in the need to dismantle and put back together the entire window, but will reduce its efficiency and performance. This is particularly important in Australia as our homes are frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Preparing the Frame

If you are replacing a fixed sliding door window using a sash fixed or an opening sash, ensure that the new unit is of the right dimension. UPVC frames have very little movement and a double-glazed sealed unit that is just a few millimeters oversize is not going to fit. To ensure that measurements are accurate make sure you measure with care and seek the advice of an expert.

Once you have a clear idea of the dimensions of the replacement and you are sure it is correctly fitted, remove the glass from its frame. Make sure you work in a well-lit location and wear safety equipment, such as gloves, to avoid injury from shards of glass. Make use of a putty blade to cut off the glazing strips or beads that secure the glass in the frame, and remove them from the perimeter of the pane. The glass is hard and you must be careful not to slip or stressing the frame.

When the frame is ready to be sealed for the new double glazing unit, check that it is capable of opening and closing smoothly. It should be a snug fit, but you are able to adjust it if you need to by removing or adding packers. If Replacement Seals For Doors dartford is intended for sliding glass doors you may need to add additional packers to the top of the hinge and the opposite corner in order to prevent the sash from catching when it opens.

Then, clean the frame. Take off any old sealant or glazing tape If necessary. Assess any damage and make small repairs with wood filler or sanding, if required. The frame will be refreshed by a final clean and inspection so that it can stand up to the harsh Australian weather for a long time.

Lifting the New Unit

Over time, double-glazed sealed units (or a 'sealed unit' as it is often known) may develop issues such as moisture in-between panes and/or misting. This can reduce the efficiency of your windows which allows cold air to get in and warm air from your heater to escape, resulting in high energy bills and discomfort.

This type of failure in seals is typically caused by aging, general wear and tears or harsh chemical cleaners that deteriorate the sealing material. Sometimes, the cause is due to expanding and shrinking of the glass during changing seasons and the temperature fluctuations in the home.

After the frame is cleaned and ready and sanded, you can begin lifting the new unit in the right place. This is an exciting step because you've made a real difference to your home, improving its comfort in the winter months and cooling it in the summer, while aiding in reducing the cost of energy.

It's important to make sure the new unit fits correctly into the frame prior to securing it in place. A little attention in this phase will help prevent any damage to the frame, as well as the glass.

If you use glazing tape or sealing tape on your windows, now is the best time to apply a bead along the perimeter of the glass. This will create a strong barrier that will prevent air and moisture from getting into the window. Tighten the sealant with care making sure it's secure, but not too tight to strain the glass or frame. Then, give yourself an ointment for a job well done and enjoy your newly installed double-glazed window!

Secure the Unit

With the new unit seated perfectly in the frame, and a new layer of sealant covering its entire perimeter it is the moment to mark the end of your work. The unit is now secure to withstand Australia's varied weather conditions, which is a guarantee for warm temperatures in winter and cool temperatures in summer. It's the moment when you can confirm the precision of your measuring and removal, which is a proof of a product that has been designed to exact measurements.

It is crucial to find the ideal balance between the need to secure the unit and not straining the glass. If it's too loose, the unit may be unable to seal its airtight seal. If it's too tight, it may cause damage to the frame or even warp the material. Each screw must be able to locate its original place by turning only enough to ensure that the unit is held securely without putting pressure too heavily on it.

This is the final step in a project that will improve a home's energy efficiency and comfort as well as its appearance. When your work is completed, with the new double-glazed unit securely placed in the frame and a new bead adorning the perimeter.

The glass panes is filled either with the gas argon or with a desiccant. As opposed to air, argon is much lower thermal conductivity and reduces heat transfer through the glass. In addition, a desiccant adsorbs water in the atmosphere, stopping mould and condensation from building up in the frame. The spacer bar that is usually made of aluminium, is a crucial part of the insulating system. The aluminum blocks the transfer of heat, but also keeps the edge of the glass that is insulated warm to avoid condensation.

Be sure to check your work

After you've put in the new unit and applied an ounce of silicone sealant around the edges it is essential to let it sit and set. Don't disturb it! It takes at least 4 hours for it to reach its maximum strength and provide an impenetrable barrier. While you sit, take the time to look over your work and determine if you can detect any gaps or issues that could compromise the performance or appearance of the product.

It's also a good time to inspect the seals and frame to determine if there are any signs of damage. You can also determine if the whole window requires replacement. A faulty seal will significantly impact your home's energy efficiency as it can lead to drafts and cold spots. It also allows ultraviolet rays to penetrate the house, causing fading of furniture and reducing the life of carpets and curtains.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, your double glazing may require replacement. Making it a priority to replace it immediately will reduce your energy bills and provide a more comfortable and relaxing home.

It is a technical and labor-intensive process that requires the correct equipment, precise measurements and careful preparation. It is not an easy DIY task, and should only be carried out by a specialist in uPVC windows and doors who can guarantee the correct fitting of the replacement unit to keep your house safe from the elements. Their expertise will ensure that the double-glazed unit you select is both efficient and quiet and provides warmth during winter and coolness in summer. This will shield your home against the weather.

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