Replacement Double Glazed Units

Over time, double glazed units (or sealed units as they are commonly known) may break down. This usually happens due to the insulating properties of the inert gas that is between the glass panes degrade.

It is essential to replace a damaged or broken window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and insulated. Fortunately the task is relatively easy and straightforward to do at home.

Installation

If the window has been properly installed, the new window will fit firmly in place and will fit comfortably within the frame. If the new glazed window is not the same size as the old one, you may have to adjust the 'packers' (usually blue or red plastic slips) inside the frame. If you're not sure how to do this then consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance.

A high-quality replacement double-glazed window is manufactured to the highest standards and should fit your frame with no hassle. But, even a tiny mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window, and should therefore be checked carefully.

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

Sometimes, these units may develop problems with their seals. This typically happens when moisture is introduced into the air space of the glass and creates condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not only unsightly but also affects the efficiency of the glass unit.

Look for a fogginess or misty appearance in between your window gaskets replacement panes. This is a sign that the seal between two panes has been broken and water is flowing in to your living space.

The first step is to remove the glazing beads from around the edges of your window. It can be tricky and messy, but it is worth it as you will be able to access the wedge gasket that holds your glass in position. You'll need to take off the beads with care to ensure that they do not break and it's often an excellent idea to ask for assistance at this stage. Once the beads have been removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it to loosen a bit of the frame. With a helper holding it in place while you accurately measure its size, height and width. This information is vital because it will determine the size wedge gasket you need to cut for your new double-glazed sealed units.

Checking

Double glazing units or sealed units, as they are often called, can break down over time. This is usually due to a leak in the seal, which lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This will affect the ability of the window to keep cold air out, warmth produced by the heating system in, and solar energy from the sun inside.

Seal failure can also cause draughts to be felt within the home. Double-glazed windows should be inspected regularly for signs of failure. If you notice moisture or misting between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is failing and a new one should be installed.

If you do need to replace a sealed unit, it is essential that the new one is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is set in have little tolerance for moving, so even a few millimetres too big can affect the performance of the window. To be certain that you are ordering the right size, it's best to consult a professional or the manufacturer's manual.

Insert the new piece of glass into the frame with the help of a friend. This should be done in a safe area as the glass may break if it falls. Once the sealed unit is secured in the frame, reconnect any packers on the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads back into their original positions. After you have completed this take the window for a thorough visual inspection to ensure there are no gaps, and that it isn't misaligned.

It is possible to apply a small amount of sealant around the frame's perimeter to prevent it from moving. It is recommended to check the thickness of the glass unit. This is crucial since double glazing rubber seal replacement glazed units are available in various thicknesses and using the wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.

Sealing

double glazing sealed unit replacement glazing is an excellent method to increase the efficiency of your home's heating system and provide improved sound quality by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time, the seals of the glass may wear out resulting in condensation or drooping windows. In these instances replacement is required. It is recommended for you to work with an experienced double glazing installer who can assist you in selecting the right glass products as well as ensure precise measurements, and ensure proper installation.

If you are replacing a sealed unit, the first step is clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is ideal) to clean the frame, removing 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. The easiest way to do this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by putting your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out until you reach the point where it is in contact with the friction joint. You should also take an outline of the length you need for your new seals since it will be helpful in cutting them to the required size.

The installation of the sealed unit is easy after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. To get the best results when doing this, it's best to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that support the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure the seal is built to the correct size and ensure there aren't any gaps in it.

After the beads have been reinserted, you can start with the top one and move down to the others. Be careful not to touch your sealed units for a while following the sealing process as the silicone will require time to set and become hard before you are able to handle it again. I typically leave it for about 6 hours prior to handling but this will differ based on your silicone sealant's setting time.

Finalization

Once the new double glazed windows seal replacement glazed unit is secure within its frame and is sealed, it's time to seal and finish. This step is not only an actual finish to the project, it also signifies that your home will be prepared to withstand the elements with its new safe guardian is installed.

The first step involves cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to fix the old glass seal repair. The frame is then scrubbed clean of dirt, old sealant and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates the timber frame or aluminium frame. It is also a good time to look over any damaged areas and make minor repairs, using wood filler or sanding when required. For major damage you must consult a professional.

The spacer tubes are then be filled with desiccants in order to take in any moisture that could have been trapped between the two panes during manufacturing or over time. This is a standard procedure for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants and manual or automatic desiccant dispensers.

After the spacers have been filled with glass, the frame and glass are sealed with a high-performance silicone, specifically designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms an airtight seal that is both flexible and durable that can expand and contract without breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness, since any gaps could impact the thermal performance. If you're unsure of the proper thickness seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.

The final step is to add an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. It's applied to outside edges of the frame which creates a secondary seal capable of repelling moisture and block air from entering, helping to increase energy efficiency.

Then, the frame is finished with aluminum cladding. This protective coating will endure the elements and keep your frame looking new for many years. It's a smart investment for the long-term integrity of your home's frame, especially in the case of historic homes or federation homes, where timber frames are prone to decay and rot.