glass seal repair repairmywindowsanddoors Glazed Units
Over time, double-glazed units (or sealed units as they are commonly known) will break down. This happens because the insulating properties of the gasses that insulate the glass panes degrade.
If a window has been damaged down it's important to replace the unit to ensure your home is well-insulated and energy efficient. Fortunately the task is relatively simple and easy to complete at home.
Installation
If the window was put in correctly, the new window should be able to fit comfortably and securely within the frame. If the new glazed window isn't the same thickness that your old one was it may be necessary to adjust the 'packers' (usually red or bluish plastic slips) inside the frame. If you are unsure what to do, consult your installer or the manufacturer's instructions for guidance.
A high-quality replacement double-glazed sealed unit will be manufactured to the highest standards and will fit into your frame with a minimum of fuss. But, even a tiny mistake can have a major impact on the performance of your window, and should be examined attentively.
Modern double-glazed units are a great energy efficient addition to any home. They use a layer of argon gas between the panes in order to insulate and thereby reduce the amount of heat that could escape your property during cold weather.
Sometimes, these units may develop issues with their seals. This happens when moisture gets into the air cavity and causes condensation. Moisture in the cavity of your windows is not only unsightly but also decreases the efficiency and effectiveness of the glazed unit.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of causes. The most effective method to determine the cause is to look for a foggy or misty look between the window panes. This indicates that the seal between the two panes has ruptured and moisture is pouring into your living space.
The first step is to remove the glass beads that surround the edges of the window. It can be difficult and messy, but it's worth it because you will be able to access the wedge gasket which holds your glass in position. You will need to remove the beads with care so that they do not break and it is often an excellent idea to seek help at this point. After the beads are removed, allow the sealed unit to fall back slightly from the frame. With help from a person, keep it in position while you accurately measure the width, height and also the thickness. This information is essential as it will help you determine the 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 often referred to they can break down over time. It is usually due to a leak in the seal that lets condensation and moisture into the space between the panes. This can affect the way the window can keep out cold air, heat generated by the heating system inside the home, and solar gain inside the window.
Failing seals can also cause draughts to be felt in the home. It is crucial to regularly check your double glazed windows for indications of failure. If you see water or mists between the glass, this is a sign that the seal is failing and a new unit should be installed.
If you must replace a sealed unit, it is crucial that the replacement unit is the right size to fit. The uPVC frames that the sealed unit sits in have little tolerance for moving, so even just a few millimetres over could affect the performance of the window. Talk to a professional or consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you get the correct size.
With a helper holding the new piece, gently move it into the frame. This must be done in a safe area as the glass may break if it falls out. Once the sealed unit is securely within the frame, re-attach any packers on the bottom of the frame and then put the glass beads back in their original position. After you've completed this take the window for a thorough visual inspection to ensure that there are no gaps, and that it is not misaligned.
You may need to add a small amount of sealant around the edges of the frame to prevent it from moving. It is recommended to check the thickness of the glass unit. This is essential since double-glazed units are available in various thicknesses and a wrong thickness can affect the u-value of your home's insulation.
Sealing
Double glazing is a great method to increase your home's thermal efficiency as well as improve acoustics by reducing the transfer of sound. Over time the seals on the glass may be worn out, resulting in misted or drooping windows. In these instances replacement is required. It's a good idea to consult a double-glazing professional who can assist you in selecting the most suitable glass products, take precise measurements, and ensure proper installation.
The first thing to be done when replacing a sealed unit is to clean the frame. You can make use of an old paintbrush (4 inches is the ideal size) to clean the frame, removing dust and cobwebs which build up in the frame over time. When the frame is clean, it's a good idea to give the new seals a clean too. It is easiest to remove gaskets for the wedge from the friction joint by placing your fingers on the edge of the gasket and pulling it out. It is also important to make an outline of the length you need for your new seals as it will help when cutting them to size.
After the gaskets have been cleaned and the frame is cleaned it's time for the sealed unit. To get the best results when doing this, it's best to cut off the beads (the UPVC frame clips that hold the glass) and then take measurements of these. This will ensure the seal is built to the right size, and that there aren't any gaps around it.
After the beads are reinserted, you can start with the top one and work your way down to the other. After sealing the units, you must not touch them for a few hours as the silicone sealant needs to set and harden. I usually wait about 6 hours before handling it, but the silicone sealant setting time will vary.
Finishing
Once the new double glazed unit is secure within its frame It's time to seal and complete. This is more than just a physical closure to the project. It's an assurance that your home is prepared to face the elements with a new secure guardian securely in the right place.
The first step is cleaning the frame and taking out any glazing beads, strips or other materials used to fix the old glass. The frame is cleaned of dirt and old sealant as well as glazing tape, a process that also revitalizes the wood or aluminium of the frame of the window. It's also a good time to assess any damages and make small repairs, by using wood filler or sanding when required. For major damage, you should consult a professional.
The spacer tubes will be filled with desiccants to absorb any moisture that might be trapped between the two panes during production or over time. This is a common practice for a warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks desiccants as well as manual and automatic desiccant dispensing equipment.
After the spacers have been filled, the glass and frame are sealed with a high-performance silicone designed to tolerate Australia's harsh climate. This sealant forms a barrier that's durable and flexible, able to expand and contract without becoming fragile or breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness, since any gaps could affect thermal performance. If you're not sure of the correct thickness to use you should consult an expert or a manufacturer's guide.
The final step involves adding secondary sealant. It is typically polyisobutylene or a similar material. This is applied along the edges of frames to form an additional seal. It is able to repel moisture and prevent air infiltration, thus increasing the efficiency of the energy.
The frame is coated with aluminum cladding. This protective coating will withstand the weather and keep your frame looking new for many years. This is a smart investment for the long-term integrity and aesthetics of your frames, particularly if have federation or period homes that have timber frames that are prone to rot.