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Replacement Double Glazed Units Double-glazed units, or sealed units as they're also known, can get worn out over time. This is usually the case because the insulating properties in the inert gas between glass panes breaks down. If a window has been damaged down, it is essential to replace it to ensure your home is fully insulated and energy efficient. The task is simple and easy. 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 the same thickness as the old one then you may need to alter the “packers” (usually red or blue slips of plastic) within the frame to ensure that it is properly placed. If you're unsure of how to proceed, consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice. A high-quality replacement double-glazed unit is constructed to exacting standards, and should fit into your frame with ease. However, a small error can have an enormous impact on the performance of your window, and must be inspected carefully. Modern double-glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They use the argon gas between the panes to insulate and thus reduce the amount of heat that will escape your home in cold winter months. However, there are times when these units can break down or develop problems with their seals. This is usually the case when moisture is introduced into the air cavity of the glass, causing condensation between the panes. The moisture that is absorbed by the windows' cavity is not just ugly, but also reduces the efficiency and effectiveness of the glazed unit. Look for a fogginess or misty appearance in between your window panes. This indicates that the seal between two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space. The first step to take is to take the glazing beads off around the edges of your window. This can be a little complicated and messy, but it is worth the effort since it lets you access the gasket that keeps your glass in place. It is crucial to take care when removing the beads to ensure they don't break. Asking for help can be beneficial at this point. After the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit to drop slightly out of the frame. Then, using an assistant, hold it in place while you measure it accurately length, width and the thickness. This is crucial as it will determine the size of the wedge gasket that you will need to cut for the brand new double-glazed sealed unit. Checking Double glazing units or sealed units, as they are often called, can fail over time. This is usually due to leaks in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to block out cold air, heat generated by the heating system in the home, and solar heat inside the window. A faulty seal can also result in draughts being felt within the home. It is important to check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. A misting or a haze of moisture in the glass is a clear indication that the seal has failed and a replacement should be installed. It is important that you replace the sealed unit with the correct size. The uPVC frames in which the sealed unit is set in have a very limited tolerance for moving, so even a few millimetres too big could affect the performance of the window. Get replacement double glazed sealed units from a professional or follow the guidelines that is provided by the manufacturer to ensure you get the correct size. With a helper holding the new unit gently slide it into place in the frame. This should be done in a safe place as the glass can break if it falls out. After the sealed unit is securely in the frame, reconnect any packers on the bottom of the frame, and then put the glazing beads back in their original position. Once you have done this give the entire window a visual inspection to ensure there aren't any gaps or misalignments that could compromise its performance. You may also need to apply a small amount of sealant to the perimeter edge of the frame to stop it from moving in the future. Reviewing the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. Double glazed units come in various thicknesses. If you choose the wrong one, it can have a negative impact on the value of your home. Sealing Double glazing is an excellent option to boost the efficiency of your home's heating system and enhance sound quality by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time, the seals on the glass can wear out resulting in windows that are drooping or misty. In these instances, replacement is essential. It's a good idea to work with a double glazing expert who can help you select the best glass products, make precise measurements, and ensure proper installation. When replacing a sealed unit the first step is clean the frame. You can make use of an old paintbrush (4 inch is ideal) to sweep the frame out to remove dust and cobwebs which accumulate in the frame over time. It's a great idea clean the new seals after the frame has been cleaned. It is easy to remove gaskets for the wedge from the friction joint by placing your hands on the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. Note down the time frame you'll need to use your new seals. This will help when cutting them. Once the gaskets are clean and the frame is cleaned it's time to put in the sealed unit. To get the best results from this, it's best to cut off the beads (the UPVC frame clips that are used to hold the glass) and then measure these. This will ensure the seal is constructed to the correct dimensions and there aren't any gaps in it. Once the beads are back in their place, you can insert the top bead, and then work your way round to the other three. After sealing the units, you should not contact them for several hours as the silicone sealant needs to set and harden. I typically wait around 6 hours before handling it, however the silicone sealant's time to set will differ. Finishing After the double-glazed unit is securely seated within its frame, it's time to seal and finish. This isn't just an aesthetic finish to the project, but also a declaration that your home will be prepared to withstand the elements after the new, secure guardian is installed. The first step involves 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 any dirt, old sealant, and glazing tape. This process also rejuvenates either the frame made of timber or aluminium. This is also the moment to make any small repairs using wood filler and sanding, in the event that it is necessary. For major damage it is recommended to consult a professional. The tubes for the spacer are filled with desiccants to adsorb any moisture trapped in-between the two glass panes during manufacture or over time. This is a standard practice for warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants and manual or automated dispensers of desiccant. After the spacers are filled with the spacers, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone, specifically designed to withstand Australia's tough climate. The sealant creates an airtight barrier that's both durable and flexible that can expand and contract without breaking. It's important to use the correct thickness, since any gaps could impact thermal performance. If you're not sure of the right thickness to use, consult with an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines. The final step is to apply a secondary sealant, which is typically polyisobutylene (PIB) or a similar product. It's applied to the outside edges of the frame, where it creates a secondary seal able to repel moisture and prevent air penetration which can improve energy efficiency. Then, the frame is coated with aluminum cladding. This is a coating that is resistant to the elements, and keep your frame looking brand new for many years to be. It's a smart investment for the long-term stability of your home's frame particularly in the case federation or period homes where wooden frames are susceptible to rot and degradation.