Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time double glazed units (or sealed units as they are commonly called) may break down. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes break down.
It's important to replace a damaged or broken window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and insulated. Fortunately the task is relatively simple and easy to complete at home.
Installation
If the window was installed correctly, the new unit should be able to fit comfortably and securely inside the frame. If the new unit isn't of the same thickness as the previous 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 what to do, consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.
A top-quality replacement double-glazed sealed window is manufactured to the highest standards and should fit your frame with ease. However, a small error can have a major impact on the performance of your window, and should be examined carefully.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic energy efficient addition to any home. They utilize a layer of argon gas between the panes to insulate and thereby reduce the amount of heat that can escape your property during cold weather.
However, sometimes these units can break down or develop problems with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture enters the air cavity of the glass, causing condensation between the panes. Moisture in the windows' cavity is not just ugly, but also reduces the effectiveness and efficiency of the glazed unit.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors and the best method to determine the cause is to look for a hazy or misty appearance between your windows. This indicates that the seal between two panes is ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.
The first thing to do is to remove the glazing beads around the edges of the window. It's tricky and messy, but it's worth the effort because you will be able to access the gasket for wedges that keeps your glass in place. You'll need to take off the beads with care so that they don't break, and it's usually an excellent idea to ask for assistance at this point. Once the beads are 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, hold it in place while you accurately measure its length, width and height. This information is vital as it will help you determine the size wedge gasket to cut for your newly double-glazed sealed units.
Checking
Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are often referred to they can break down in time. This is usually due an opening in the seal, which allows moisture and condensation into the space between the panes. This can affect the capacity 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 in your home. Double-glazed windows must be examined often for signs of failure. If you see water or misting between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is failing and a replacement unit must be installed.
If you have to replace a sealed unit it is essential that the replacement unit is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit sits 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 right size, it's best to seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's manual.
Insert the new piece of glass into the frame with the assistance of a companion. It is crucial to place it in a secure place since the glass is fragile and can break or fall out. After the sealed unit is fixed to the frame, reconnect any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then reinstall the glazing beads into their original position. After you have completed this take the window for an extensive visual inspection to ensure there are no gaps, and that it is not misaligned.
It is possible to apply a small amount of sealant around the perimeter of the frame in order to prevent it from moving. It is also a good idea to check the thickness of the glass unit. This is crucial since double-glazed units come in different thicknesses, and a wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing is an excellent method to increase your home's thermal efficiency and enhance acoustics by reducing the transfer of sound. Over time the seals of the glass may get worn out, leading to misted or drooping windows. In these cases replacement is needed. It is a good idea to collaborate with a professional double glazing installer who can assist you in selecting the best glass products, ensure accurate measurements, and ensure proper installation.
The first thing to be done when replacing a sealed unit is to clean the frame. You can make use of an old paint brush (4 inches is the ideal size) to sweep the frame out, removing dust and cobwebs which build up in the frame over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's a good idea to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. The easiest way to do this is to remove the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out until you reach the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. You should also take an outline of the length that you need to make your new seals, as it will help when cutting them to size.
Installation of the sealed unit is simple after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. It's a great idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that are used to hold the glasses) and measure them. This will ensure that the seal is constructed to the right size, and that there aren't any gaps around it.
After the beads have been put back in, you can begin with the top one and move down to the others. After sealing the units, you must not contact them for several hours because the silicone sealant has to harden and set. I typically leave it for about 6 hours prior handling but this will differ based on your silicone sealant's setting time.
Finishing
The sealing and finalization of the project is now required once the double-glazed unit has been snugly installed within its frame. This step is more than a physical closure to the work; it's an assurance that your house is now ready to withstand the elements with a new, secure guardian safely in place.
The first step is cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads, strips or other materials that were used to hold the old glass. The frame is then scrubbed clean of dirt, old sealant, and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates the timber frame or aluminium frame. It's also a good opportunity to look over any damaged areas and make minor repairs using wood filler or sanding if necessary. Major damage should be referred to an expert to repair.
The tubes for the spacer are filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that may be trapped in-between the two panes of glass during manufacture or over time. This is a standard procedure for warm edge sealed units. double glazed sealed unit replacement desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing devices.
After the spacers have been filled with the spacers, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone specifically designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant creates a tight barrier that's both strong and flexible capable of expanding and expand without becoming brittle or breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness as any gaps could affect thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manufacturer's manual for more information on the thickness to use.
The final step is to add secondary sealant, which is typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or similar products. It's applied to the edges of the frame's exterior which creates a secondary seal that's able to repel moisture and stop air penetration which can improve energy efficiency.
The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating can withstand the weather and keep your frame looking new for many years. It's a smart investment for the long-term integrity of your home's frame, particularly in the case period or federation homes where wooden frames are susceptible to decay and rot.