In this article you can read step by step how to install or replace double glazing yourself. Installing double glazing is specialized work, but it is certainly possible to do it yourself. However, always make sure you have the right tools and safe working conditions, such as sturdy gloves.
To install double glazing, you need a number of materials and tools. Here is an overview.
Materials:
Tools:
There are 2 ways to measure the existing glass:
If you took the daylight size, then add a few millimeters to the window. If you took the tight size, then subtract about 7 mm.
Cover the floor with a tarp or towel; this prevents a lot of cleanup work afterwards. Cut loose the old sealant between the glass and the frame with a Stanley knife. Using a chisel, carefully pry loose and remove the old glass battens. If the glass battens are still in good condition, you can reuse them. Note: the window is now loose!
Put on safe work gloves. Place the suction cups on the glass and remove the old pane. Set the pane down in a safe place, such as on two spools of wood.
Remove old caulk and glazing tape with a Stanley knife. Remove old nails with pincers. Remove old paint with a paint scraper. Clean both the rebate and the glazing bars.
First, see if the existing frame is really good enough. No wood rot should be present. Double glazing is prone to moisture absorption at the edges. So replace or repair the woodwork if necessary. Then apply a coat of primer/primer, preferably two coats.
Place two wedge-shaped support blocks in the lower sill, about a quarter from the corner. This will keep the glass from sagging due to its own weight. Next, place adjustment blocks on the sides, leaving space between the rebate and the glass.
Apply the PU tape (adhesive strip) all around in the rebate.
Again use the suction cups and place the glass in the rebate. Check that the clearance on all sides is around 4 to 5 mm.
Make sure the glass battens are also primed with a primer or buy new battens that are already primed. In the latter case, make sure that the heads are primed. Install the top glazing batten first, then the bottom one and only then the left and right glazing batten (if necessary).
Move the caulk gun slowly so that there is enough filling between the glazing batten and glass. Remove the excess sealant with a knife. Leave the glass alone for 24 hours to allow the sealant to cure properly.
Fortunately, AA Glas's mechanics have a lot of experience and they have the VCA certificate (Safety, Health and Environment Checklist Contractors). AA Glas also has the GBO (Glas Branche Organisatie) professional certificate and the ISO 9001 quality mark. In the end this simply means that we deliver the best quality and keep our promises.
