Five Essential Tools Everyone In The Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units Industry Should Be Utilizing Replacement Double Glazed Units

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

It is crucial to replace a damaged window to ensure that your home is fully energy efficient and well-insulated. Luckily, the task is simple and easy to accomplish at home.

Installation

If the window was installed correctly, the new window should fit comfortably and firmly inside the frame. If the new window isn't the same thickness as the old one, you may have to adjust the 'packers' (usually blue or red plastic slips) inside the frame. If you are unsure how to do this then consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.

A good quality replacement double glazed seal will be made to exacting standards and will fit into your frame with the least amount of fuss. A small error can have a significant impact on the performance of your window.

replacement window seals glazed units are a fantastic energy efficient addition to any home. They use a layer argon between the panes of glass to provide insulation and cut down on the amount of heat that escapes from your home during cold weather.

Sometimes, these units may develop issues with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture gets into the air space of the glass and causes condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not just unsightly, but it also reduces the efficiency of the glazed unit.

You can spot a cloudy or misty look between the window panes. This is a sign that the seal between two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring in to your living space.

The first thing to do is to remove the glazing beads around the window edges. This can be tricky and a bit messy but is well worth the effort as it allows you to get access to the wedge gasket which keeps your glass in place. It is necessary to remove the beads with care so that they do not break, and it's usually an excellent idea to ask for help at this point. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to fall slightly from the frame. With an assistant, hold it in place while you precisely measure the width, height and also the thickness. This is important because it will determine the size of the wedge gasket you need to cut for the double glazed unit.


Checking

Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are often called and can fail in time. This is usually due a leak in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This affects how the window can keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar heat inside the window.

The failure of seals can cause draughts within the home. Double-glazed windows should be examined often for indications of failure. If you notice moisture or mist forming between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is not working and a new one should be installed.

It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames which the sealed unit is placed in have little tolerance for movement, so even just a few millimetres over can have an impact on the performance of the window. Talk to a professional or consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you get the correct size.

With the help of a person who holds the new unit gently move it into the frame. This must be done in a secure location as the glass could break if it falls. Once the sealed unit is securely within the frame, re-attach any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then place the glazing beads back in their original position. After you have completed this, give the window a thorough visual inspection to ensure that there aren't any gaps and that it isn't misaligned.

You may need to add some sealant around the edges of the frame in order to prevent it from moving. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is a good thing to do. Double-glazed units come in different thicknesses. Making the wrong choice can have a negative impact on the u value of your home.

Sealing

Double glazing is a great way to improve your home's thermal efficiency as well as enhance acoustics by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time, the seals on the glass can be worn out, resulting in windows that are drooping or misty. In these instances replacement is needed. It's a good idea work with a double glazing professional who will help you choose the best glass products, take precise measurements, and ensure proper installation.

The first thing that needs to be done when replacing an item that is sealed is to clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is the ideal size) to clean the frame, taking off dust that has accumulated over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's a good idea to give the new seals a thorough clean too. The most efficient method to do this is to pull out the Wedge gaskets by putting your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out at the point that it overlaps with the friction joint. Note down the length of time you'll need your new seals. This will aid in cutting them.

After the gaskets have been cleaned and the frame is cleaned it's time to put in the sealed unit. To ensure the best results when doing this, it's recommended to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure that the seal is made according to the correct dimensions and will not leave gaps around it.

When the beads are back in place you can insert the top bead, and then work your way round to the remaining three. Be careful not to touch the sealed units for a few minutes following the sealing process as the silicone will need some time to set and harden before you can use 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

After the double-glazed unit is secure within its frame and is sealed, it's time to seal and complete. This is more than a physical closure to the project. It's an assurance that your house is prepared to face the elements with its 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, sealant or glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates the timber frame or aluminium frame. This is also the time to make any small repairs using wood filler and sanding, in the event that it is necessary. For major damage, you should seek out a professional.

The spacer tubes will then be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that might have been 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 a range of desiccants as well as manual or automated dispensers of desiccant.

After the spacers are filled, the glass is sealed with a highly-performing silicone that is designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. The sealant creates an airtight seal that is both durable and flexible and can expand and contract without breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness, since any gaps can impact the thermal performance. If you're unsure of the right thickness to use, consult with an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.

The final step is to add an additional sealant, usually polyisobutylene (PIB) or a similar product. This is applied to the edges of the frame's exterior and creates a secondary seal able to repel moisture and prevent air penetration which can increase energy efficiency.

The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating is able to endure the elements and keep your frame looking brand new for a long time. This is a smart investment for the long-term integrity and aesthetics of your frames, particularly if have federation or period style homes that have timber frames that are prone to get rotted.