How to Install Double Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows are becoming more common in new homes. They can also be used to replace old windows. They offer better thermal insulation as well as noise reduction.
This article will explain how to install double-glazed windows, including preparation of the window opening space as well as measuring and fitting and maintenance tips.
Frame
The frame of a double-glazed window is fitted into the opening and secured in place. The frame should be fitted correctly to the opening to avoid leaks of air and water. A professional installer will use a shim pack to ensure the frame is snug and level. They will also seal the edges of the frame to ensure that it is watertight and to keep it dry from moisture.
The frames of uPVC windows are usually constructed of various materials. These include vinyl or uPVC as well as aluminium and timber. The selection of the material is based on the requirements of each home. Wooden frames provide a classic look, while uPVC is more durable and offers greater energy efficiency. Double-glazed windows can reduce noise from neighbors planes, traffic or planes.
Before installing the frame, it is important to thoroughly clean the glass and uPVC of any dirt or debris. Chemical cleaner and a rag could be used to remove any streaks or stains that are stubborn. Cleaning the area where the frame is to be installed, and the sill of an existing window, is also a good idea. After cleaning the area, the uPVC can be stained or painted.
After the frame has been cleaned, it is now ready to be used for the new double-glazed window. A uPVC kit will usually include all the tools required to set up the window. It is a good idea to use gloves when handling the glass panes, as they can be extremely sharp.
The uPVC window is fitted to the opening by the use of spacers. Spacers are available in different sizes and are made out of plastic. To decrease double glazing installations of glass breaking, it is recommended that you choose the smallest spacers. It is also an excellent idea to use a silicone sealant on the edges of the frame, as this will help to minimize the chance of a build-up of moisture.
Installing trickle vents on the walls of your house is also a great idea because double-glazed windows generate lots of heat. These vents can help maintain the temperature within the home and also reduce the requirement for artificial heating.
Sill
The sill of a double-glazed window is a crucial element to consider when installing an entirely new house or renovating an existing property. It is an enclosure that isolates the inside of your house from the outside, allowing you control the temperature, reduce the noise and increase security. The sills are typically made of uPVC which is durable and requires little maintenance. It can be affixed using an adhesive to the concrete frame, a wood frame or a masonry one. It can also be affixed to the wall with expanding foam, but it is advised that low-expansion foam is used instead, which expands less quickly and does not damage or cause warping to the uPVC.
Be sure to clean the area around the window opening prior to installing double-glazed windows. You can also employ a soft brush or cloth to clean the walls around the window opening to get rid of dust and dirt. Then, you'll need to prepare the frames for the installation. Apply a waterproofing layer to the outside and around the edges of the frames. After that, the frames are then placed in their window openings. Be sure that they are square and plumb. To accomplish this, you can use a variety of plastic spacers that are inserted in between the frame and wall. A special PVC superglue can be used to join the end caps to the sill.
You will need to add the setting block at the lower part of your sill after the frame is set. This will ensure that the frame is held securely and doesn't get sunk or move as time passes. If you are not comfortable with this task, you can hire a professional to do it for you. It is best to get someone else to help you move the window by dragging it in place by the frame into the window space so that it is not dropped or handled improperly in a way that could cause it to break and be damaged.
Glass
The glass that is insulated is the main part of double-glazed windows. It is placed inside a uPVC or aluminium frame. It is composed of two panes separated by a spacer which creates a gap between the glass. The air gap is then filled with an insulating gas. It's like a glass bread sandwich with an insulating filling.
The IGU is secured to the frame of the window using a high quality sealant. Based on the type of product and installation, it may require the use of cold or heat to set the seal. This step is essential to prevent leakage of water and air.
Once the seal is applied and the seal is set, the next step is to prepare the glass and frame to be installed. Installers will measure the sill and frame to ensure that they are in the right place. This includes taking off any caulking or glue using a putty blade. The installer will then apply a small amount of silicone on the top of the sill. This will stop water from getting inside the frame and can be used to stop water from running through the back of the sill and into the wall behind it.
After the bead of silicone is placed on the frame then the installer will take away any beads on the frame and shims if required to adjust the positioning of the new window. The installer will attach the frame to the wall structure once it is in the correct position.
The space between the glass panes in a double glazed window is filled with an inert, low conductivity gas that can improve the thermal and acoustic efficiency. Most commonly, argon is employed. This gas is very effective at insulation and can reduce outside noise by as much as 20%. The insulating gas also acts to limit the flow of external air into the house, further improving energy efficiency. In addition, the vacuum between the panes can help reduce condensation, which could cause mold and mildew growth. As a result, double glazing is the ideal choice for homes with moisture problems or those located close to airports or busy roads.
Hardware
Double-glazed windows reduce heat loss or gain to your home. As a result, your air conditioning and heater will not have to be as efficient in keeping the temperature at an acceptable level. This means lower energy bills.
Another benefit of double glazed windows is that they cut down on sound, making it much quieter in your home. This is due to the fact that sound waves are more likely to be absorbed by large objects and dispersed. The two panes of glass in a double glazed window also help in separating noise from the outside world.
If you're thinking of installing double-glazed windows into your home, a professional can provide you with a range of options to suit your requirements. A professional will measure and define your window openings accurately to ensure the correct size window is purchased. The frame is then installed and secured using screws or fixings.
After installation, your double glazed windows need to be maintained on a regular basis. This will prevent moisture and condensation, which could cause damage to the seal of your double-glazed window, and affect its ability to keep warmth in and cold out.
Cleaning your double glazed windows is simple and straightforward. You can make a mix of soap and warm water to clean your frames, and a degreaser can be used to remove stubborn grease or dirt. Regularly grease hinges, locks and mechanisms to ensure that they are operating efficiently.
One of the most frequent problems that people face with double-glazed windows is that the seals fail, which causes moisture to build up between the panes. This can make the windows appear cloudy or hazy, and alter their insulation properties. If you notice a water build-up, you need to contact the company who installed your windows as fast as possible to correct the problem. If the seals are damaged, they might need to be replaced. This can be costly.