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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 qualities of the inert gases between the glass panes break down. It is essential to replace a broken window to ensure that your home is fully energy efficient and insulated. The task is easy and straightforward to do at home. Installation If the window was put in correctly, the new window should be able to fit comfortably and securely inside the frame. If the new glazed unit isn't the same thickness as the older one, then you might need to modify the existing 'packers' (usually red or blue slips of plastic) in the frame to ensure it is properly placed. Consult your installer or the instructions from 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 minimal fuss. A small mistake 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 utilize the argon gas between the panes to provide insulation and thereby reduce the amount of heat that could escape your property during cold winter months. Sometimes, these units develop problems with their seals. This usually occurs when moisture enters the air space of the glass and causes condensation between the panes. The presence of moisture in your window is not only unsightly but also affects the efficiency of the glass unit. Condensation can be caused by a range of factors and the best method to test for it is to look for a hazy or hazy appearance between the window panes. This indicates that the seal between the two panes of glass is broken and water is entering your living spaces. The first thing you need to do is to take off the glazing beads around the edges of the window. This can be difficult and messy, but it's worth the effort as it allows you to get access to the wedge gasket that keeps your glass in place. It is crucial to take care when removing the beads so they don't break. A little help from a friend can be a good idea at this point. After the beads have been removed, allow the sealed unit to fall back slightly out of the frame. With help from a person, keep it in place while you accurately measure the width, height and also the thickness. This is crucial as it will determine what size wedge gasket you will need to cut for your new double-glazed sealed units. Checking Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are commonly called, may break down over time. This is usually due to an opening in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk affects the ability of the window to keep cold air out, warm air produced by the heating system in and solar gain from the sun's rays inside. Seal failure can also cause draughts in the home. Double-glazed windows must be checked regularly for signs of failure. If you see water or mist forming between the glass, it is an indication that the seal is not working and a replacement unit must be installed. If you do need to replace a sealed unit, it is vital that the new unit is the correct size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit is positioned have a very small tolerance for movement, which means that even a few millimetres could affect the performance of the windows. To ensure that you're ordering the right size it is best to consult an expert or the manufacturer's guidelines. Place the new unit into the frame with the assistance of a companion. This should be done in a secure area as the glass may break if it falls. After the sealed unit has been fixed to the frame, reconnect any packers at the bottom of frame and then reinstall the glass beads in their original positions. After you have completed this, give the entire window a thorough inspection to ensure there are no gaps or misalignments that could affect its performance. You may need to add a small amount of sealant around the perimeter of the frame to stop it from moving. Checking the thickness of the unit is also recommended. Double-glazed units are available in various thicknesses. Making the wrong choice could have a negative effect on the value of your home. Sealing Double glazing is an excellent option to boost your home's thermal efficiency as well as improve acoustics by decreasing the transfer of sound. Over time the seals on the glass may wear out resulting in windows that are drooping or misty. In these instances, replacement is necessary. 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 to ensure accurate measurements and ensure proper installations. The first thing to be done when replacing a sealed unit is to clean the frame. Use a paintbrush from the past (4 inches is the ideal size) to scrub the frame, taking off dust that has accumulated over time. After the frame has been cleaned, it's best to give the new seals a clean too. The most efficient method to do this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by placing your fingers on the edge and then pulling it out until you reach the point where it overlaps with the friction joint. You should also take notes of the length you require for your new seals since it will be helpful in cutting them to the required size. Once the gaskets are cleaned and the frame cleaned up it's time for the sealed unit. It's a good idea remove the beads (the UPVC frames clips that serve to hold the glasses) and then measure the size of them. This will ensure that the seal is built to the right size and ensure there are no gaps around it. After the beads have been reinserted, you can start with the top one and work your way down to the others. After sealing the units, do not touch them for a few hours as the silicone sealant needs to set and harden. I usually let it sit for about 6 hours prior to handling but this could vary based on your silicone sealant's set times. Finishing The sealing and finalization of the project is now required once the new double-glazed unit has been snugly installed within its frame. This isn't just an actual finalization of the project but also a statement that your home is ready to weather the elements now that its new secured guardian is installed. The first step is cleaning the frame and removing any glazing beads strips or other materials that were used to secure the old glass. The frame is then free of dust and old sealant as well as glazing tape, a procedure which also renews the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window. This is also the moment to make any small repairs using wood filler and sanding, if needed. For major damage you must consult a professional. Next, the tubes that are used as spacers are filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that might be trapped in-between the two panes of glass in the course of manufacture or later on. This is a common practice 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 with glass, the frame and glass are sealed using a high-performance silicon, designed to tolerate Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms a barrier that is both strong and flexible that can expand and contract without becoming fragile or breaking. It is essential to choose the right thickness, as any gaps could impact thermal performance. Consult a professional or the manufacturer's manual for more information on the thickness to use. The final step is to add secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene, or a similar substance. This is applied along the outside edges of frames to form a secondary seal. It will ward off moisture and stop air infiltration, thus increasing energy efficiency. The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating will endure the elements and keep your frame looking brand new for a long time. This is a wise investment to ensure the longevity and beauty of your home's frames, particularly if have federation or period homes with wooden frames that are susceptible to decay.