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Replacement Double Glazed Units Over time, double glazed units (or sealed units as they are usually called) may break down. This happens because the insulating properties of gasses that insulate the glass panes degrade. It is crucial to replace a damaged window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and well-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 be firmly seated and sit comfortably inside the frame. If the new glazed unit isn't of the same thickness as the old one, you may have to modify the existing 'packers' (usually red or blue slips of plastic) inside the frame to ensure that it sits properly. Ask your installer for instructions of the manufacturer if you're uncertain. A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit is made to exacting standards and should fit your frame with no hassle. But, even a tiny mistake could have a huge impact on the performance of your window and should be examined attentively. Modern double glazed units are an energy efficient addition to any home. They apply argon between the panes of glass to insulate and cut down on the amount of heat that escapes your home in cold weather. Sometimes, these units can have issues with their seals. This happens when moisture enters the air cavity and creates condensation. The condensation in your window is not just unsightly, but it also reduces the effectiveness of the glazed unit. Condensation can be caused by a range of causes. The best method to determine the cause is to look for a foggy or misty look between your window panes. This is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken and moisture is flowing into your living spaces. The first step to take is to remove the glazing beads from around the edges of your window. It can be tricky and messy, but it's worth it because you will have access to the wedge gasket that holds your glass in position. It is crucial to take care when removing the beads so that they don't fall off. A little help from a friend can be helpful at this stage. Once the beads are removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it a little to fall out of the frame. With the help of a person holding it in place while you measure its width, height and 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 commonly called, can degrade over time. This is usually because of a crack in the seal that allows moisture and condensation to infiltrate the space between the panes. This can affect the way the window is able to keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system in the home and solar gain inside the window. Failing seals can also cause draughts in the home. Double-glazed windows should be inspected regularly for indications of failure. A misting or a haze of moisture in the glass is an indication that the seal has failed and a replacement should be put in place. If you have to replace a sealed unit it is essential that the replacement unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames on which the sealed unit is placed have a very limited tolerance for movement, which means that even a few millimetres can alter the performance of windows. Get advice from a professional or follow the guide provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you order the correct size. With a helper holding the new unit, gently place it in the frame. This must be done in a secure place as the glass can break if it falls. After the sealed unit is secured to the frame reconnect any packers at the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads in their original positions. Once you've done this, give the entire window a thorough examination to ensure that there are no gaps or misalignments that could affect its performance. You may have to add a small amount of sealant around the frame's perimeter to stop it from moving. Re-checking the thickness of the unit is also an excellent thing to do. Double-glazed units come in various thicknesses. Using the wrong one could have a negative effect on the u value of your home. Sealing Double glazing is a fantastic method to increase your home's thermal efficiency and provide improved audio quality by cutting down on the transfer of sound. However, over time the glass's seals can wear down resulting in misted windows and a reduction in performance. In these situations, replacement is essential. It's a good idea work with a double glazing professional who can help you choose the best glass products, take accurate measurements and ensure that the installation is done correctly. When replacing a sealed unit, the first thing you need to do is clean the frame. You can make use of an old paint brush (4 inch is the best) to sweep the frame out, removing dust and cobwebs which build up in the frame over time. It's a great idea to clean the new seals once the frame has been cleaned. It is easy to remove the gaskets that are wedge-shaped from the friction joint by placing your fingers on the edge of the gasket and pulling it away. Make a note of the time frame you'll need to use your new seals. This will help when cutting them. The installation of the sealed unit is simple once the frame and gaskets have been cleaned. To get the best results from this, it's recommended to cut off the beads (the UPVC frame clips that support the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure that the seal is made to the right size and won't leave any gaps around it. Once the beads are back in place you can insert the top bead, and then move on to the next three. After sealing the units, you should not touch them for a few hours as the silicone sealant needs to harden and set. I usually wait about 6 hours to handle it, however the silicone sealant's time to set will differ. Finishing When the new double-glazed unit is securely seated within its frame, it's time to seal and complete. This step is not only an aesthetic finishing touch to the project but also a statement that your home will be prepared to withstand the elements with its new secured guardian is installed. Replacement rubber gutter seals is to clean the frame carefully removing any glazing strips or beads that bonded the old glass. Then, the frame is cleaned of dust and sealants that have been used for years, as well as glazing tape, a procedure which also renews the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window. It's also a good time to evaluate any damages and make small repairs, by using wood filler or sanding if necessary. For more serious damage it is recommended to seek out an expert. The spacer tubes are filled with desiccants in order to absorb any moisture that might be trapped between the two glass panes during manufacture or over time. This is the standard procedure for warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants as well as manual or automated dispensers for desiccant. After the spacers have been filled, the glass is sealed with a high-performance silicone designed to withstand Australia's harsh environment. This sealant forms an airtight barrier that's both flexible and durable and can expand and contract without breaking. It is important to use the right thickness, as any gaps could impact thermal performance. Talk to a professional or consult the manufacturer's guide for more information on the thickness to use. The final step involves adding secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene or another similar material. This is applied to the edges of the frame's exterior and creates a secondary seal able to repel moisture and prevent air penetration, helping to improve energy efficiency. The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This is a protective coating that is resistant to the elements, keeping your frame looking brand new for many years to come. It's a wise investment in the long-term integrity of your home's frame particularly in the case of federation or period homes where timber frames are prone to rot and degradation.