The Biggest Issue With Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units, And How You Can Solve It
Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are commonly called) will break down. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes are broken down.
When a window has broken down, it is essential to replace the window to ensure that your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. Fortunately the task is relatively simple and easy to complete at home.
Installation
If the window was put in correctly, the new window should be able to fit comfortably and securely inside the frame. If the new glazed unit is not of the same thickness as the previous one, you may have to adjust the existing "packers" (usually blue or red slips of plastic) inside the frame to ensure it is properly placed. If replacement double glazing sealed units are unsure what to do, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.
A good replacement double glazed sealed unit is made to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of hassle. A small error can have a significant impact on your window's performance.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic addition to any home. They are energy efficient and can save you money. They use a layer of argon in between the panes glass to provide insulation, and reduce the amount heat that escapes from your home during cold winter.
Sometimes, these units may have issues with their seals. This typically happens when moisture gets into the air cavity of the glass and creates condensation between the panes. The moisture that is absorbed by the windows' cavity is not just ugly, but also decreases the effectiveness and efficiency of the glazed unit.
Check for a fogginess or misty appearance in between your window panes. This indicates that the seal between two panes is broken and moisture is leaking in to your living space.
The first step to take is to take the glazing beads off around the edges of your window. This can be complicated and messy, but it's worth the effort because it allows you to get access to the gasket that holds your glass in place. You'll need to take off the beads with care so that they don't break, and it's usually recommended to ask for assistance at this point. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to fall slightly out of the frame. Then, using a helper hold it in place while you accurately measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential because it will determine the dimensions of the wedge gasket that you need to cut for the double glazed unit.
Checking
Double glazing units or sealed units as they are often referred to and can fail over time. This normally occurs because of a crack in the seal, which allows moisture and condensation to enter the space between the panes. This can affect the capacity of the window to keep cold air out, warmth generated by the home's heating in, and solar energy from the sun inside.
Failure of the seal can cause draughts in your home. It is crucial to check your double-glazed windows for indications of failure. Moisture or misting in between the glass is a strong indication that the seal has failed and a replacement unit is required.
If you have to replace a sealed unit it is essential that the new unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames on which the sealed unit is placed have a tiny tolerance for movement, which means that even a few millimetres of movement can alter the performance of windows. To be certain that you are ordering the correct size, it is best to seek advice from a professional or the manufacturer's manual.
With a helper holding the new piece, gently move it into the frame. This should be done in a secure location as the glass could break if it falls out. Once the sealed unit is secured to the frame reconnect any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then replace the glazing beads into their original positions. Once you've completed this take the window for an inspection thoroughly to ensure that there are no gaps and that it isn't misaligned.
It is possible to apply a small amount of sealant around the edges of the frame to prevent it from moving. It is also a good idea to re-check the thickness the glass unit. Double glazed units come in various thicknesses. Using the wrong one could have a negative effect on the value of your home.
Sealing
Double glazing is a great option to boost your home's thermal efficiency as well as enhance sound quality by cutting down on the transfer of sound. However, over time the seals in the glass can be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these cases replacement is required. It is recommended to consult an experienced double glazing contractor who can assist you in selecting the best glass products as well as ensure precise measurements and ensure proper installations.
The first thing to be done when replacing an item that is sealed is to clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is ideal) to scrub the frame, getting rid of dust that has built up over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's a good idea give the new seals a clean too. The easiest method for doing this is to pull out the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out at the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. Make a note of the time frame you'll need to use the new seals. This will aid in cutting them.
The installation of the sealed unit is simple once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. To ensure the best results when doing this it's a good idea to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that support the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure the seal is made to the correct size and ensure there aren't any gaps around it.
Once the beads are back in place, you can put in the top bead, and then proceed to the next three. Be careful not to touch the sealed units for a long time following the sealing process as the silicone will require time to set and harden before you can handle it again. I typically wait around 6 hours before handling it, but the sealant setting time will vary.
Finishing
Finishing the project and sealing it is now necessary once the new double-glazed unit has been installed securely within its frame. This is more than a physical closure to the work; it's an assurance that your house is prepared to face the elements with a new, secure guardian safely in 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. Then, the frame is cleaned of dirt and sealants that have been used for years, as well as glazing tape, a process which also renews the timber or aluminium of the window's frame. This is also the time to make any minor repairs by using wood filler or sanding, if necessary. If you have a major issue, you should seek out an expert.
The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may have been trapped between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. This is a standard procedure for units with warm edges. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing equipment.
After the spacers have been filled with the spacers, the glass and frame are sealed using a high-performance silicon, specifically designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates an airtight seal that is both flexible and durable, and can expand and contract without breaking. It is important to use the right thickness, as any gaps could impact the thermal performance. Ask a professional for advice or refer to the manufacturer's manual in case you're not sure about the thickness to use.
The final step is to apply a secondary sealant, typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or similar products. It is applied to the outside edges of frames to form an additional seal. It can repel moisture and stop air infiltration, thus increasing the efficiency of the energy.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This is a protective coating that can withstand the elements, and keep your frame looking new for a long time to come. It's a smart investment for the long-term stability of your home's frame particularly in the case of period or federation homes where timber frames are susceptible to decay and rot.