window seal replacement Glazed Units
Double-glazed units, or sealed units, as they're known, can wear out over time. This usually happens because the insulating properties in the inert gas between the glass panes break down.
If a window has been damaged down, it's crucial to replace the window to ensure your home is well-insulated and energy efficient. The task is relatively easy and straightforward.
Installation
If the window has been properly installed, the new window will fit snugly and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new unit is not the same thickness as the older one, then you might need to adjust the existing 'packers' (usually red or blue slips of plastic) in the frame to ensure it is properly positioned. If you are unsure how to do this then consult your installer or the instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance.
A good quality replacement double glazed sealed unit will be made to exacting standards and should fit into your frame with the least amount of fuss. A minor mistake can have a huge impact on your window's performance.
Modern double-glazed units are an excellent 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 provide insulation and cut down on the amount of heat that can escape from your home in cold weather.
However, sometimes these units can fail or have problems with their seals. This occurs when moisture enters the air cavity and creates condensation. Moisture in your window cavity is not just ugly, but it also reduces the efficiency of the glass unit.
Condensation can be caused by a range of factors and the best method to determine the cause is to look for a cloudy or misty look between your windows. This could be a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken down and moisture is leaking into your living spaces.
The first thing you need to do is to remove the glazing beads around the edges of your window. It can be a bit tricky and messy, but it's worth it as you will be able to access the gasket for wedges that holds the glass in place. It is important to remove the beads carefully so they don't break. It is advisable to ask for help. be beneficial at this stage. Once the beads are removed allow the sealed unit to fall slightly out of the frame. With help from a person, keep it in position while you precisely measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential as it will help you determine the size wedge gasket you need 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 over time. This is usually due to a leak in the seal, which allows condensation and moisture to enter the space between the panes. This affects how the window can keep out cold air, heat produced by the heating system in the home, and solar gain inside the window.
A faulty seal can also cause draughts within the home. It is crucial to regularly check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. If you see moisture or mist forming between the glass, it is a sign that the seal is failing and a new one should be installed.
It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit sits in have a very limited tolerance for movement, so even just a few millimetres over can have an impact on the performance of the window. Consult a professional or the guide that is provided by the manufacturer to ensure you order the correct size.
With a helper holding the new unit gently slide it into place in the frame. This must be done in a secure place as the glass can break if it falls. Once the sealed unit is fixed to the frame, reconnect any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then reinstall the glazing beads back into their original position. After you've completed this, give the window an inspection thoroughly to make sure there are no gaps, and that it is not misaligned.
It is also possible to add a bead of sealant to the outer edge of the frame in order to prevent it from shifting in the future. Re-checking the thickness of the unit is also recommended. This is important as double-glazed units come in various thicknesses, and if you choose the wrong one, it can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing is a fantastic option to boost the efficiency of your home's heating system and enhance sound quality by reducing the transfer of sound. However, over time, the glass's seals can wear down resulting in misted windows and a decrease in performance. In these situations, replacement is essential. It is a good idea to employ a double glazing professional who can help you select the best 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 use an old paint brush (4 inches is the ideal size) to clean the frame to remove dust and cobwebs which build up in the frame over time. It's a great idea clean the new seals once the frame has been cleaned. The easiest method for doing this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out at the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. It is also important to make an outline of the length you need for your new seals since it will be useful in cutting them to the required size.
The installation of the sealed unit is simple after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. To ensure the best results from this it's a good idea to prise out the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure that the seal is constructed to the correct size and ensure there are no gaps around it.
After the beads are placed back in, you are able to begin with the top one and move down to the others. You should be cautious not to touch the sealed units for a long time following the sealing process as the silicone needs time to set and become hard before you can use it again. I usually wait about 6 hours before handling it, but the sealant setting time will vary.
Finalization
After the double-glazed unit is secure within its frame It's time to seal and complete. This step is more than a physical conclusion to the work; it's an affirmation that your home is now ready to withstand the elements with its brand new secure guardian securely in its place.
The first step is cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to fix the old glass. The frame is then cleaned of dirt, sealant or glazing tape. This process also renews the aluminium or timber frame. This is also the time to make any minor repairs using wood filler and sanding, in the event that it is necessary. For more serious damage, you should seek out a professional.
Next, the spacer tubes are filled with desiccants to adsorb any moisture that might be trapped between the two glass panes during the process of manufacturing or after time. This is a typical procedure for units with warm edges. 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 barrier that is both durable and flexible and can expand and contract without breaking. It's important to use the right thickness, as any gaps could affect thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manufacturer's guide in case you're not sure about the thickness you should use.
The final step is to add secondary sealant, typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or an equivalent product. It's applied to the edges of the frame's exterior, where it creates a secondary seal capable of repelling moisture and prevent air penetration which can increase energy efficiency.
The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating will be able to withstand the elements and keep your frame looking brand new for many years. This is a smart investment for the long-term integrity and the beauty of your home's frames, particularly if you have federation or period homes with timber frames that are susceptible to decay.