Notes

What Freud Can Teach Us About Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units
Replacement Double Glazed Units

Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually called) will break down. This happens because the insulating properties of inert gases that are a part of the glass panes break down.

When a window has broken down, it is essential to replace the window to ensure that your home is fully insulated and energy efficient. The task is simple and easy to accomplish at home.

Installation

If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will fit firmly in place and sit comfortably inside the frame. If the new glazed unit isn't the same thickness as the older one, you may have to adjust the existing 'packers' (usually blue or red slips of plastic) within the frame to ensure that it sits properly. If you're not sure how to proceed, consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.

A good replacement double glazed sealed unit is made to the highest standards and should fit in your frame with the least amount of hassle. But, even a tiny mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window, and should therefore be checked attentively.

Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic addition to any home. They are energy efficient and save you money. They use the argon gas between the panes to provide insulation and thereby reduce the amount of heat that could escape from your home during cold winter months.

However, in some cases, these units may break down or develop problems with their seals. This typically happens when moisture gets 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 it also reduces the effectiveness of the glazed unit.

Check for a fogginess or misty appearance in between your window panes. This is a sign that the seal between the two panes of glass has broken down and moisture is leaking into your living spaces.

The first step to take is to remove the glazing beads from around the edges of your window. It can be a bit difficult and messy, but it's worth the effort because you will have access to the wedge gasket which holds the glass in place. It is essential to remove the beads carefully so that they don't fall off. A little help from a friend can be beneficial at this point. Once the beads have been removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it a little to fall out of the frame. With the help of a person holding it in place while you accurately measure its width, height and thickness. This information is vital because it will determine the size wedge gasket you will need to cut for your newly double glazed sealed units.

Checking

Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are often referred to, can fail over time. It is usually due to a leak in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to keep out cold air, heat produced by the heating system within the home, and solar gain inside.

Failure of the seal can cause draughts to be felt in your home. It is essential to regularly check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. If you notice moisture or misting between the glass, this is a sign that the seal is not working and a replacement unit must be installed.

If you do need to replace a sealed unit, it is vital that the new unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is set in are not tolerant of movement, so even a few millimetres too big can have an impact on the performance of the window. To ensure that you are ordering the correct size, it is best to seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.

With a helper holding the new unit, gently move it into the frame. It is essential that you make this move in a secure spot since the glass is fragile and may break or fall out. Once the sealed unit is securely in the frame, reconnect any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then put the glass beads back in their original position. Once you have done this give the entire window a thorough 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 frame's perimeter to prevent it from moving. Checking the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. This is important as double-glazed units come in various thicknesses and using the wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.

Sealing

Double glazing can increase the efficiency of your home and offer better audio. Over time the seals of the glass may get worn out, leading to condensation or drooping windows. In these instances replacement is needed. It is recommended to consult an experienced double glazing installer who can help choose the appropriate glass to ensure accurate measurements, and ensure proper installation.

When replacing a sealed unit the first step is clean the frame. You can use an old paint brush (4 inches is the ideal size) to clean the frame, removing dust and cobwebs that will accumulate within the frame over time. It's a good idea to clean the new seals once the frame has been cleaned. The easiest method for doing this is to lever out the gaskets on the Wedge by placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out at the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. Note down the length of time you'll need the new seals. This will aid in cutting them.

Installing the sealed unit is straightforward after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. To get the best results from this, it's best to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that support the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure that the seal is built to the correct size and there aren't any gaps in it.

After the beads have been put back in, you can begin with the top one and work your way down to the others. You should be careful not to touch your sealed units for a long time following the sealing process as the silicone will require time to set and become hard before you can handle it again. see this wait 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant setting time will vary.

Finalization

Finishing the project and sealing it is now required after the new double-glazed unit has been snugly installed within its frame. This isn't just an aesthetic finish to the project, but also a statement that your home is prepared to withstand the elements after the new secured guardian is installed.

The first step is to clean the frame carefully removing any glazing strips or beads that bonded the old glass. The frame is then scrubbed clean of dirt, old sealant and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates the frame made of timber or aluminium. It's also a good opportunity to evaluate any damages and make small repairs, using wood filler or sanding if necessary. The most serious damage should be taken to an expert to repair.

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

After the spacers are filled with the spacers, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone designed to tolerate Australia's harsh climate. This sealant creates a tight barrier that is both strong and flexible, able to expand and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It is important to use the right thickness since any gaps can affect thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manual of the manufacturer if you are unsure about the thickness you should use.

The final step is to apply a secondary sealant, which is typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. This is applied to the edges of the frame's exterior and creates a secondary seal capable of repelling moisture and block air from entering and improve energy efficiency.


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 durability of your home's frame particularly in the case historic homes or federation homes, where timber frames are susceptible to decay and rot.

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