Replacement Double Glazed Units
Double glazed units, or sealed units as they're also called, will wear out over time. This is usually the case when the insulating properties of the inert gas that is between the glass panes degrade.
It's important to replace a broken window to ensure that your home is fully energy efficient and insulated. The process is fairly simple and easy.
Installation
If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will be firmly seated and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new unit isn't of the same thickness as the older one, you may have to modify the existing "packers" (usually red or blue slips of plastic) inside the frame to ensure it is properly positioned. Consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer if you're unsure.
A good replacement double glazed sealed unit will be manufactured to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with a minimum of hassle. A small mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window, and must be inspected with care.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic addition to any home. They are energy efficient and save you money. They utilize argon between the panes of glass to insulate, and reduce the amount heat that can escape from your home in cold weather.
However, sometimes these units may fail or have issues with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture enters the air cavity of the glass, causing condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not just unsightly, but it also reduces the efficiency of the glass unit.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of causes. patio door seals replacement repairmywindowsanddoors to test for it is to look for a cloudy or hazy appearance between your windows. This indicates that the seal between two panes is ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.
The first step is remove the glazing beads around the edges of your window. It can be tricky and messy, but it's worth the effort because you will be able to access the wedge gasket that holds the glass in place. You'll need to take off the beads with care so that they don't break and it's often recommended to ask for help at this point. After the beads are removed, allow the sealed unit to drop slightly out of the frame. Then, using an assistant, hold it in position while you measure it accurately height, width and the thickness. This information is essential as it will help you determine the size wedge gasket you need to cut for your brand 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 a leak in the seal, which allows condensation and moisture to enter the space between the panes. This will affect how well the window is able to block out cold air, heat produced by the heating system within the home and solar gain inside.
A seal failure can cause draughts in the home. Double-glazed windows should be checked regularly for indications of failure. If you see moisture or misting between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is not working and a new one should be installed.
If you must replace a sealed unit, it is crucial that the new unit is of the right size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit is placed have a very small tolerance for movement, meaning that even a few millimetres of movement can impact the performance of the windows. Get advice from a professional or follow the guidelines that is provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you order the correct size.
Slide the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a partner. It is essential that you make this move in a secure place as the glass is fragile and may be thrown out and break. After the sealed unit is secured in the frame re-attach any packers that are at the bottom of the frame, and then put the glass beads back into their original position. After you've completed this make sure you give the window a thorough visual inspection to ensure there are no gaps and that it isn't misaligned.
You may need to add some sealant around the perimeter of the frame in order to prevent it from moving. It is recommended to check the thickness of the glass unit. This is essential since double glazed units are available in various thicknesses and a wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing is an excellent way to improve your home's thermal efficiency and enhance acoustics by decreasing the transfer of sound. However, over time the seals in the glass can be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a reduction in performance. In these cases, replacement is essential. It is a good idea for you to work with a professional double glazing installer who can assist you in selecting the best glass products as well as ensure precise measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
The first thing to be done when replacing an item that is sealed is to clean the frame. Make use of an old paintbrush (4 inches is the best) to scrub the frame, getting rid of dust that has built up over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's best to give the new seals a clean too. The easiest method for doing this is to remove the gaskets on the Wedge by placing your fingers on the edge and pulling it out until you reach the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. It is also important to make a note of the length that you need to make your new seals, as it will help when cutting them to size.
Once the gaskets are clean and the frame is clean, it's time for the sealed unit. It's a great idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that are used to hold the glasses) and measure the size of them. This will ensure the seal is built to the correct dimensions and ensure there aren't any gaps in it.
After the beads have been put back in, you can begin with the top one and move to the lower ones. After sealing the units, you should not contact them for several hours as the silicone sealant needs to harden and set. I typically wait around 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant setting time will vary.
Finishing
After the double-glazed unit is securely seated within its frame and is sealed, it's time to seal and finish. This is more than a physical conclusion to the project. It's an affirmation that your home is prepared to face the elements with its brand new, secure guardian safely in its place.
The first step is to clean the frame taking care to remove any glazing strips or beads that bonded the old glass. The frame is then free of dirt and old sealant as well as glazing tape, a procedure that also rejuvenates the timber or aluminium of the window's frame. It is also a good time to assess any damage and make small repairs by using wood filler or sanding if necessary. Major damage should be referred to a professional to repair.
Next, the tubes for the spacer are filled with desiccants to adsorb any moisture that may be trapped between the two panes of glass during the process of manufacturing or after time. This is a common practice for warm edge sealed units. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants and manual or automated dispensers for desiccant.
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 forms a barrier that's both strong and flexible, able to expand and contract without becoming brittle or breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness, since any gaps could impact thermal performance. If you're not sure of the right thickness to use you should consult an expert or a manufacturer's guide.
The final step is adding secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene or another similar material. 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 increase the efficiency of energy.
Then, the frame is finished with aluminum cladding. This protective coating can endure the elements and keep your frame looking new for a long time. This is a wise investment to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your frames, particularly if you have federation or period style homes with timber frames that are prone to decay.