Replacement Double Glazed Units

Double glazed units, or sealed units as they're also called, may wear out over time. This happens because the insulating properties of inert gases that are a part of the glass panes are broken down.

If a window has been damaged down it's important to replace it to ensure that your home is properly insulated and energy efficient. The task is easy and straightforward.

Installation

If the window is properly installed, the new window will be firmly seated and sit comfortably inside the frame. If the new glazed unit is not of the same thickness as the older one, you may have to alter the 'packers' (usually blue or red slips of plastic) within the frame to ensure that it sits properly. Check with your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer if you're uncertain.

A high-quality replacement double glazed seal will be manufactured to the highest standards and should fit into your frame with a minimum of fuss. A small error can have a huge impact on your window's performance.

Modern double glazed units are a great energy efficient addition to any home. They use a layer argon between the panes glass to provide insulation, and reduce the amount heat that escapes your home during cold weather.

However, in some cases, these units fail or have issues with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture enters 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 reduces the efficiency and effectiveness of the glazed unit.

Condensation can be caused by a range of causes. The best method to test for it is to look for a cloudy or hazy appearance between the windows. This could be a sign that the seal between the two panes of glass has been broken and water is entering your living spaces.

The first step is to take the glazing beads off around the edges of your window. This can be difficult and messy, but it is worth the effort as it allows you to get access to the wedge gasket which keeps your glass in place. It is crucial to take care when removing the beads so that they don't fall off. A little help from a friend can be helpful 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 to hold it in place while you accurately take measurements of its size, height and width. This is crucial because it determines the dimensions of the wedge gasket must be cut to accommodate the double glazed unit.

Checking

Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are often called, can fail over time. It is usually due to an opening in the seal that allows moisture and condensation into the space between the panes. This affects how the window sealant repair near me can keep out cold air, heat produced by the heating system within the home, and solar gain inside the window.

Failing seals can also cause draughta double glazing professional who will assist you in selecting the most suitable glass products, take precise measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.

The first thing to be done when replacing the sealed unit is to clean the frame. Make use of an old paintbrush (4 inches is ideal) to scrub the frame, taking off dust that has built up over time. It's a great idea clean the seals that have been installed after the frame has been cleaned. It is easiest to remove the gaskets that are wedge-shaped from the friction joint by placing your fingers along the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. You should also make a note of the length that you require for your new seals as it will help in cutting them to the required size.

Once the gaskets are clean and the frame is cleaned it's time for the sealed unit. To ensure the best results when doing this it's a good idea to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that hold the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure that the seal is constructed to the right size, and that there are no gaps around it.

After the beads have been reinserted, you can start with the top one and work your way down to the other. Be careful not to touch your sealed units for a long time afterward, as the silicone sealant needs time to set and become hard before you can handle it again. I typically wait 6 hours to handle it, but the silicone sealant's setting time can vary.

Finalization

After the double-glazed unit is secure within its frame, it's time to seal and complete. This step is not just a physical finish to the project, it also signifies that your home will be ready to weather the elements with its new safe 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 renews the timber frame or aluminium frame. This is also the time to make any minor repairs using wood filler and sanding, if necessary. The most serious damage should be taken to an expert for repair double pane windows broken seal.

The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may be trapped between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. This is a standard practice for a warm edge seal. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing equipment.

After the spacers are filled, the glass is sealed with a high performance silicone that is designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates a barrier that's both strong and flexible capable of expanding and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It's important to use the correct thickness, since any gaps can impact thermal performance. If you're not sure about the right thickness to use seek advice from a professional or manufacturer's guide.

The final step is 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 is able to repel moisture and block air infiltration, thereby increasing the efficiency of energy.

Then, the frame is finished with aluminum cladding. This protective coating will endure the elements and keep your frame looking new for a long time. This is a smart investment to ensure the durability and the beauty of your home's frames, particularly if you have federation or period style homes that have timber frames that are susceptible to rot.