Installation of Double Glazed Windows for New Homes

One of the options for the installation of double glazed windows in a brand new home is the method requiring the use of brackets. Standard brackets, made of aluminium and measuring 120mm x 40mm x 5mm, are used to attach the window to the brick. The brackets are attached to the window before it is fitted into the aperture.

Tools Required:

• Gloves, Goggles

• Tape Measure, Spirit Level, Pencil

• Electric Screwdriver, Nail Gun (may be required)

• Hand Drill, with 3, 3.5 or 4mm drill bits

• Screws (see below for sizes)

• Any type of Saw (to cut an aluminium angle)

• Expanding foam

• Window Packers - 1, 3, 7, 12mm

Before attaching the brackets, it is prudent to check the size, style, and position against the order. As a rough guide, unless the double glazed window is at least 10mm smaller than the opening on each side, it is not advisable to attempt installation without professionals. The brackets are attached in no particular order, using 30mm screws, and it is necessary to maintain the window level during this process. The brackets are strategically placed 100mm from the bottom and top of the double glazed window, while the remaining brackets are affixed between 350-400mm in between the top and bottom brackets. The number of brackets used depends on the window size.

Fitting New Double Glazed Windows:

Notably, the size of screws varies from the bracket attachment stage; the standard screw for joining the bracket to the brick is 60mm long. Window insertion involves fitting the new double glazed window with brackets into the aperture, which is a two-stage process. The first stage involves leveling the window horizontally and applying packers until the desired level is reached. The second stage entails using packers on the sides (vertically) to prevent tilting forwards or backwards, so the window does not fall out when it is no longer manually supported. The packers are fitted directly under the brackets on the side. On the first application, the screws are tightened lightly and only finished tight after all the screwing points are started. Failure to leave the screws gently fixed may result in the window curving slightly on one side. If the side looks bent, it is possible to decrease the magnitude by releasing the screw somewhat, adding packers, then re-tightening the screw. If the double glazed window leans forwards or backwards, the window was not leveled correctly. This can result in the window sash swinging in or out (if casement) when it would otherwise have stayed in position without having to apply the lock. It is prudent to check everything before moving onto the next stage.

Sealing New Double Glazed Windows and Doors for Insulation:

To achieve the best results and to take advantage of the high performance of our double glazed windows, we recommend that you apply expandable foam around the window to close off any gaps. Sealing off cavities, cracks, and empty spaces between the window and wall will reduce the transmission of noise and ensure the double glazed window is weatherproof. If the render is completed outside, the use of silicon is not obligatory; if not or if the brick is clear, then silicon must be used not only to seal and waterproof around the window but to protect the surface of another sealant - expandable foam, which is easily damaged by radiation. Inside, it is popular to either have brackets covered by gyprock or by reveal and/or architraves depending on customer/builder specifications. We offer consultation services to advise and offer solutions at any stage of the process.

Glazing of New Double Glazed Windows and Doors:

Care must be taken and safety remembered at all times, since the double glazed units can be particularly heavy and the risk of injury is higher than working with window frames. Glazing also requires the use of additional tools comprised of:

• Glass suction cups/ vacuum cups

• Rubber or plastic hammer

• Glass/ Glazing packers

• Silicon or plastic glue

To start, apply glass/glazing packers on the bottom section of the frame/sash, on top of the indentation for glazing in the profile. The width of the packers should be between 5-7mm. This will raise the insulated glass unit, and even if you install the window frame correctly, it is still necessary to keep the glass straight and centre it inside the window. The double glazed unit differs from a single pane of glass in that if the double glazed unit is not centred, it will be obvious and it will compromise the modern and stylish design of the window. The glass should be centred, that is, the distance of the gap at the top is the same as at the bottom. The side packers will keep the glass straight and prevent movement inside the sash. From the top, measure about 1/3 of the height of the glass pane, and by using plastic glue or silicon, attach glass packers to the side of the glazing indentation in the profile. For best results, the suction cups should be used for the next step. Place the glass in the prepared area. By using vacuum cups, it is possible to move the insulated glass unit around inside the glazing area to make slight adjustments in order to achieve the desired position. Finally, using a rubber or plastic hammer, tap the glazing bead or strips around to hold the glass in place.

Final Step of Installation for Double Glazed Windows and Doors:

Where appropriate (not on fixed panels), fit the handle and hinge covers. Test the new double glazed window or door by opening and closing to ensure it is operational. You should not have to use force to open and close the window, and it should be airtight when closed. The sash should fit into the frame, and there should be no gaps between frame and sash and frame and wall when closed. If the window or door looks crooked, it has not been correctly installed. Open the sash a few times and check if the operation is smooth and comfortable. It is possible to ease or tighten the operation according to the user's preference.