Why Double Glazing Replacement Sealed Units Is Your Next Big Obsession
Double Glazing Replacement Sealed Units
Over time double glazed units or sealed units as they are also known can disintegrate. Moisture or misting between the glass panes is a common indication.
The process of securing a new window to its frame is a moment that requires care and precision. It's not just an act of installation but also one that ensures that the window will be able to endure the harsh weather conditions of Australia.
Remove the Old Unit
A brand new double-glazed replacement sealed unit can be a transformative home improvement project which will increase your property's comfort and energy efficiency. This project requires careful measuring, exact removal, thorough cleaning, preparation, installation, as well as sealing and completing. It's a task that protects your home from the elements, bringing warmth in winter as well as a quiet sanctuary from the bracing Tasmanian winds.
To complete the project, you need to prepare your window frame for the new unit. This includes taking out any bolts, screws or handles and ensuring that the frame is free of any damage. The next step is to carefully remove the old sealant that was around the edges of the glass, and then clean and wipe down the frame. This will prepare it for the resealing process, and ensure that there's no debris or moisture inside the frame that could affect your new sealant.
In this step it's important to record the location of any packers in the frame since they will need to be replaced when you install the new unit. This will save time and effort later. It is also important to keep track of any screws or bolts that are holding the sealed units in place so that they can be removed and then reinstalled after the re-sealing.
Once the old sealed unit is completely removed, it's the time to get your hands dirty and begin working on the resealing process of the frames. This is among the most important steps in ensuring that your home's windows are properly installed and sealed to prevent air leaks and makes them more efficient. Resealing requires you to use high-quality silicone caulking, which can withstand thermal expansion and contraction without breaking or becoming damaged.
If you're not sure how to do this correctly, it might be an ideal idea to hire an experienced double glazing specialist or company to complete the task for you. You can find them online or in the local phone book. They will be able to make a replacement sealed unit in accordance with your measurements and will ensure that the seals are properly secured.
Preparing the Frame
Over time double glazed units, or sealed units as they are commonly known can start to fail, usually as a result of condensation that drips around the edges. This can be a very frustrating problem, and the solution is to replace the double glazing unit.
It is important to prepare your frame correctly to accommodate the new unit in order to get the best performance from it. First, it's important to ensure the space is completely free from any sealant, expanding foam or debris that could interfere with the installation process. By using a chisel or scraper, remove any clumps or residue that have formed on the surface of the frame. Make sure there are replacement seals for upvc windows where water or air could leak out or in.
It's also a good idea to wash the frame thoroughly. This will ensure that the new double-glazed window pane is set properly and fits perfectly. This is also a great time to stain or paint the frame.
Before putting the new sealed unit into the frame it's recommended to make the glass as tight and secure as possible by adding some packing clips where necessary. This will prevent the window from falling out of the frame which could compromise the insulation and energy efficiency.
Another crucial aspect is to ensure that the new unit is the correct size for the frame, it can be very frustrating to have a new double glazed window fitted that doesn't fit properly and it is almost certainly not going to be as efficient as the original double glazing that it replaced. The UPVC frames that the sealed units are installed in have a very limited tolerance to movement. It is therefore important to measure the frame's width and height, as well as the thickness of each sealed unit.
Warm edge spacers can be bought at stores for home improvement and can be cut to size with handsaws and corner keys that work with the system. This will keep the glass warm and increase its efficiency.
Lifting the New Unit
Once the old unit is removed it's time to move your new sealed unit to place it in its place. This is a delicate step and it's recommended to have two hands to assist you with this. You don't want the weight of the glass to cause damage or breakage to the frame. Wearing gloves is also a good idea during this process to prevent accidental slips which could cause injury or damage to your frame.
After your new double glazing has been installed, it's a good idea to give the frame a clean. This will help remove any dust or cobwebs that might have accumulated in the frame over time. It's also a good time to replace the window gasket, also called the window seal. The window seal keeps moisture from entering the unit and reduces heating costs.
Modern double glazed units are available with a number of options and upgrades to increase energy efficiency. Low-E coatings are available in addition to Krypton gas and argon filled units. Warm edge spacer bars may be used to boost the thermal efficiency of a house.
You can choose from a variety of colours that will suit your decor. In addition, you can choose different types of handles, hinges and locks for the ultimate look.
A word of caution It is essential to use an experienced installer for replacement double glazing sealed units. They will be able to take precise measurements and ensure that your new windows are fitted correctly to avoid any problems in the future.
Double-glazed units last for years, but they do be prone to problems over time. These problems must be addressed immediately. One of the most common problems is that the unit begins to lose its strength. It is evident by the appearance of water or misting in-between the two glass panes. This is a sign that the unit is in need of replacement as it's no longer performing its purpose of keeping cold out and energy generated heat in your home.
Sealing and finishing
Once the new unit is installed, it's recommended to put a little bit of cleaning liquid on the rubber seals before you slide them back in. This will make them easier to slide into place and provide an improved fit. Once you're done, make sure that the unit is square and that the beads are put in the proper locations. It is recommended to seek the help of a trusted friend here as this part isn't easy when you're on your own.
Modern double glazing provides many advantages for homeowners, as well as improving their appearance. This includes:
Energy Efficiency: The air or gas-filled space between the glass panes reduces the heat transfer dramatically, which allows homes to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This can save a substantial amount of cost on cooling and heating bills.
Sound Reduction: The space between the panes minimizes external noise and creates a quieter home. Using acoustic laminated glass further enhances the sound reduction performance of your double glazing.
Double-glazed units can be fitted out with toughened or laminated safety glass, making it harder for burglars to gain entry to the home. This can dramatically reduce burglary rates in the home.
Customisation and Options
If you choose a reputable firm and take precise measurements, you can have double-glazed sealed replacement units manufactured to your exact specifications. This guarantees a precise fit and optimal performance. Additional features can be added to improve the double glazed units like Low-E coatings and inert gases such as argon or krypton, which can improve energy efficiency and thermal efficiency.
For older homes that have timber-framed double glazing, replacing their sealed units is a cost-effective option to ensure their homes are secure and energy efficient. The units can be customised by incorporating options like Georgian bars, leaded patterns and shaped glass as well as pet flap holes. You can also pick from different thicknesses of glass and even stepped glass to allow water runoff.