The Main Issue With Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units, And How You Can Repair It
Replacement Double Glazed Units
Over time, double-glazed units (or sealed units as they are often known) can break down. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes break down.
It is essential to replace a damaged 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 installed correctly the new unit will fit snugly and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new glazed unit is not of the same thickness as the old one then you may need to alter the 'packers' (usually red or blue slips of plastic) in the frame to ensure that it sits properly. If you're not sure how to do this then consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice.
A top-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit is made to exacting standards and should fit into your frame with no hassle. A tiny mistake can have a significant impact on the performance of your window.
Modern double-glazed units are a fantastic addition to any home. They are energy efficient and can save you money. They use a layer of argon in between the panes glass to keep them warm, and reduce the amount heat that can escape from your home in cold weather.
Sometimes, these units may develop problems with their seals. This happens when moisture gets into the air cavity and creates condensation. The presence of moisture in the window's cavity is not just unsightly, but also decreases the efficiency and effectiveness of the glass unit.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors and the best method to determine the cause is to look for a cloudy or misty appearance between your window panes. This is an indication 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. This can be a little difficult and messy, but it is worth the effort because it allows you to get access to the gasket that holds your glass in place. It is necessary to remove the beads with care so that they do not break and it's often a good idea to ask for help at this point. Once the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit a little to fall out of the frame. With a helper to hold it in place while you accurately measure its length, width and height. This information is essential as it will determine what size wedge gasket you need to cut for your new double glazed sealed units.
Checking
Double glazing units or sealed units as they are usually called, can break down over time. This is usually due to a break in the seal, which allows moisture and condensation to infiltrate the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system in the home and solar gain inside the window.
The failure of seals can cause draughts in the home. Double-glazed windows must be inspected regularly for signs of failure. The presence of mist or moisture between the glass is an sign that the seal has failed and a replacement should be installed.
If you must replace a sealed unit, it is vital that the new unit is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit sits in have a very limited tolerance for movement, so even a few millimetres too big can have an impact on the performance of the window. To ensure that you're ordering the right size, it's recommended to speak with an expert or the manufacturer's guide.
Insert the new piece of glass into the frame with the assistance of a partner. It is crucial to place it in a secure place since the glass is fragile and could break or fall out. After the sealed unit is secured within the frame, re-attach any packers at the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads back in their original position. After you've completed this make sure you give the window a thorough visual inspection to make sure there are no gaps and that it is not misaligned.
You may also need to apply a small amount of sealant around the perimeter edge of the frame to stop it from moving in the future. Re-checking the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. This is important as double-glazed units come in different thicknesses, and a wrong thickness can impact the u-value your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing can boost the efficiency of your home and provide better sound insulation. However, with time, the glass's seals may be damaged, resulting in misty windows and a decrease in performance. In these instances replacement is needed. It's a good idea to employ a double glazing professional who will assist you in selecting the most suitable glass products, take accurate measurements and ensure proper installation.
The first thing to be done when replacing an item that is sealed is to clean the frame. You can make use of an old paintbrush (4 inch is ideal) to clean the frame, removing dust and cobwebs which build up within the frame over time. When the frame is clean, it's best to give the seals that are new a thorough clean too. It is the easiest way to remove the wedge gaskets from the friction joint by placing your fingers along the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. It is also important to make a note of the length that you need for your new seals as it will help when cutting them to size.
After the gaskets have been cleaned and the frame cleaned up it's time to put in the sealed unit. It's a good 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 according to the correct dimensions and won't leave any gaps around it.
After the beads are reinserted, you can start with the top one and work your way to the lower ones. You should be careful not to touch the sealed units for a few minutes afterward, as the silicone sealant will need some time to set and become hard before you can use it again. I typically wait 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant setting time will vary.
Finishing
Once the new double glazed unit is snugly in place within its frame It's time to seal and complete. This step is not only an actual finish to the project, it also signifies that your home is ready to weather the elements now that its new safe guardian is installed.
The first step is cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads, strips or other materials used to secure the old glass. The frame is then free of dust, old sealant, and glazing tape, a procedure that also rejuvenates the timber or aluminium of the window's frame. It is also a good time to look over any damage and make small repairs using wood filler or sanding as needed. Major damage should be referred to a professional for repair.
The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants to take in any moisture that could have accumulated between the two panes in the process of manufacturing or over time. sealed window repair is the standard procedure for a warm edge seal. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automated desiccant dispensing machines.
After the spacers are filled, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone, designed to tolerate Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms an airtight seal that is both flexible and durable and can expand and contract without breaking. It's crucial to select the correct thickness, as any gaps can impact the thermal performance. If you're not sure about the right thickness to use seek advice from an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines.
The final step is adding secondary sealant. It is typically polyisobutylene, or a similar substance. It's applied to the outside edges of the frame and creates a secondary seal that's capable of repelling moisture and prevent air penetration which can increase the efficiency of energy.
The frame is then finished with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating will withstand the weather and keep your frame looking fresh for many years. This is a smart investment to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your frames, particularly if have federation or period style homes with wooden frames that are susceptible to get rotted.