Home Improvement Double Glazed Windows Secondary

Installation of Secondary Double Glazed Windows for Renovations and Refurbishment

Sometimes it may not be possible to replace old windows and doors at your discretion, such as when the building is heritage listed and the owner is required to maintain the period features outside or when body corporate/council permission must first be obtained because any new double glazed windows and doors should match all other windows. In practice, customers are rarely rejected such quality, value added improvements, especially when the existing windows are deemed unsafe, but appropriate permissions can take months and considerable effort. For customers who do not want to go through this trouble, one of the solutions is to install secondary windows.

Other clients are referred to Double Glazed Windows and Doors for secondary glazing by energy efficiency consultants and acoustic engineers, because secondary glazing is extremely effective in insulating your home against heat, cold, wind, water and noise. Essentially, secondary double glazing will mimic the benefits of triple glazing, but with a wider air-gap, creating the ultimate environment for absolute luxury and comfort.

The only condition for secondary glazing is at least 50mm wide interval from your existing windows to the start of the wall or if you have a windowsill with minimum 50mm wall space on the side. If in doubt, feel free to send us pictures, photographs or we can arrange for a surveyor to visit you for a free consultation.

Installation Process

When installing secondary double glazed windows, existing windows are retained. Double Glazed Windows and Doors' installers do not remove existing windows during the secondary window installation.

Tools Required:

• Gloves, Goggles
• Tape Measure, Spirit Level, Pencil
• Electric screwdriver
• 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

Fitting Secondary Double Glazed Windows and Doors

Window insertion involves fitting the window in the aperture, which is a two-stage process. The first stage involves levelling the window horizontally and applying packers until the desired level is reached. The second stage entails using packers on the sides; to prevent tilting forwards or backwards, so the double glazed window does not fall out when it is no longer manually supported.

If the double glazed window leans forwards or backwards, the window was not levelled correctly. This can result in 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.

The second stage involves screwing the window in place. We recommend using 120mm size screws. Decide on the corner for the first bottom screwing points - either left or right.

The screws are affixed one side a time, and it is necessary to maintain the window level during this process. The screwing points are strategically selected: the primary screwing points are 100mm from the bottom and top, and the remaining screwing points 350-400mm in between the top and bottom points. The number of screwing points depends on the window and door size.

On first application, the screws are tightened lightly, and only finished tight after all the screwing points have been attached. 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.

Sealing Secondary Double Glazed Windows and Doors for Insulation

It requires considerable skill to seal the new secondary double glazed window on the outside because movement is restricted by existence of the original window, so a corner nozzle for sealant is used to reach far enough to seal the window completely. If it is not possible to get access between the new and existing windows with a sealant, it will result in incomplete weather sealing, which will compromise the technical excellence and high performance of the new double glazed windows or doors. The use of corner nozzle will eliminate the need for squeezing and reaching between narrow space, save time and provide a more through seal around the window.

The aperture and the window require cleaning with a wet cloth at this point, because expandable foam and silicon are applied next. If the area is dirty, the silicon will not adhere properly and dust will become trapped on the surface, resulting in a sloppy and messy appearance. Dust is normal, and appears during drilling, but it has to be removed to enable good adhesion of filling substances and, therefore, insulation for the window.

Expandable foam is applied before the silicon on all gaps bigger than 7mm wide, and is left to dry for an hour. Once the protruding excess of the foam is trimmed down with a knife, silicon can be applied.

To ensure that the window looks attractive and stylish when the installation is complete, the right colour of silicon should be selected. Ideally, the silicon colour should match the window colour. The silicon that is used on the outside should be waterproof to prevent water leakage. Although using a waterproof silicon on the inside is desirable, sometimes the owner's priority is for interior design, so to allow the possibility of different finishes, using silicon that can be painted may be more practical to such clients.

The silicon is not only cosmetic, but also provides an effective waterproof, weatherproof and noise proof barrier for maximum insulation rating of the double glazed panel, window or door. Silicon dries quickly, but care should be taken nevertheless not to smear it.

Glazing of Secondary 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 higher than working with window frames.

Glazing also requires 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 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 of Double Glazed Windows and Doors

Where appropriate, (not on fixed panels) fit the handle and hinge covers. Test the window 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 he users preference.

Installation of Double Glazed Windows in new homes or buildings is usually performed by the builder and his team, however, we are prepared to quote and provide an installation service if required. Installation fee is calculated on a per item basis and depends on the size and quantity of the items. The installation quote ordinarily includes glazing, but we can also provide a quote for installation excluding glazing, or a glazing only installation - we are flexible and understand that client circumstances vary.   Great suggestions and more on double glazed new construction can be found here

Installation of replacement double glazed windows and doors or for new constructions includes removal but not disposal of existing windows, and includes glazing, which involves fitting glass into the frame.
If you hired a builder to manage the installation, but they are unfamiliar with upvc, we provide consulting services to ensure the windows installation is trouble free.   Additional information on double glazed replacement can be found at this location

Awning windows have both federation and contemporary architecture applications. Our windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our windows can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being.   Great suggestions and more on double glazed double brick can be found here

Awning windows have both federation and contemporary architecture applications. Our windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our windows can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being.   Get all the facts on double glazed clading

Awning windows have both federation and contemporary architecture applications. Our windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our windows can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being.   Additional information on double glazed single brick can be found at this location

Many people have the impression that all silicone gels on the market are the same, but we have found that their properties and, therefore, suitability varies dramatically. Generally, the descriptions of silicone offer little information as to the correct grade and type for a given application, and because of performance variability, there is no one type of silicone sealant that should be used for everything. Using the incorrect silicone or improper use may cause joint failure, contamination of surfaces because of poor application, excessive movement in the sealed joint.   A complete guide for double glazed sealing can be found here

The most important part of the installation procedure for double glazed windows and doors, comes before you even order your windows. It is critical that you measure your old window opening properly and accurately. Pvc double glazed windows and doors are custom-built and can't be returned if the size ordered was inaccurate. This is why for all replacement windows and doors and some new constructions, our trained technicians will take their own measurements before manufacture. All of our double glazed windows and doors are manufactured to a high accuracy, so ideally you should get the closest fit possible.   Greater detail on double glazed measuring your window can be found here

Self sufficient and allowing for maximum natural ventilation, Double Glazed Stacker Windows slide and fold effortlessly demonstrating the refined taste of an intelligent consumer. Double Glazed Stacker Windows can create a vast amount of space along with an inviting contemporary character, and re-create a glass wall effect because they are not constrained to the same limitations of casement, awning and tilt & turn windows where the openings are restricted. The Double Glazed Stacker Window has two or more (upto six) panels, with one panel sliding past another, and all of the panels resting or being 'stacked' on one or two sides. They are a great alternative to Bifold Double Glazed Windows, when the client prefers the sliding style over the Bifold, or when space is at a premium, since with Stacker or Sliding Double Glazed Windows you need not worry about furniture placement or possible exterior obstacles. These windows feature ease of operation and maintenance, and a universally appealing design that will complement any modern home.   Extra information about double glazed stacker window can be found here

Our Double Glazed Windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. Functional, intelligent and convenient are the defining characteristics of our Double Glazed Sliding Windows. All our windows are quipped with high quality hardware for effortless opening and closing enhance all these aspects. We combine efficient technology for Double Glazed Sliding Windows with sophisticated design creating that indispensable convenience for your home. Popular with contemporary homes, our Sliding system offers additional benefit of saving space and when used with mirrored glass, can even serve as a room divider for guest privacy.   To obtain additional information on double glazed sliding window

Double Glazed Awning Windows allow the window sash to swing outward rather than inward or up and down, so they can be located in may places around the home and easily arranged next to other window types. The awning window is the ideal window type for homes in the temperate climate zone, or homes that are positioned to take advantage of natural ventilation or breeze. Double Glazed Awning windows are made with compression and weather seal and provide higher air-tightness, energy-efficiency and acoustic insulation than other window types such as sliding and double-hung windows. Double Glazed Awning windows have a variety of applications due to their versatility and durability, and are particularly attractive option for contemporary homes because our Awning windows are manufactured locally to an indisputably imposing standard, impressing even the most discerning clientele.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed awning window click here

Our Double Glazed Doors are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our Double Glazed Tilt and Slide Doors can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being. Window Factory Tilt and Slide Doors are the most innovative and attractive deck/ garden or balcony doors available. Not only do they boast the tilt option of other popular styles, but the Tilt and Slide Doors were also designed to maintain our reputation for high performance.   Examine all the facts on double glazed tilt & slide door page

The Composite Door is gaining in popularity with great speed for clients wanting noise insulation, strength, durability and security. All our Composite Doors contain a solid interior, which is made with reinforced materials, allowing our clients to gain increased security over even a solid wooden door, and will no doubt keep the insurance provider pleased. Composite doors are extremely strong, so they don't buckle, dent or warp, because they are designed to look better and provide more security for a longer period, than wooden or glass alternatives, yet they are very price competitive. The surface contains a glass reinforced polymer material and will not fade or lose colour. Additional feature includes advanced properties that shield from the weather, to ensure you have value for money in a door that lasts for decades, not just a few years.   Great suggestions and more on double glazed composite door can be found here

Nothing can maximise cross ventilation without crating a draft like Bay Windows. They are more than just a period feature - when strategically placed they can replace air conditioning and provide a lovely feature for your home. They also make the room feel more spacious and appear larger, so they have been known to increase the value of a property. Typically, the bay windows are very large, even covering almost the entire distance from floor to ceiling. The effect of prolific natural light and stunning outdoor views from any angle in the room can be filtered or softened with window treatments.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed bay window click here

Embrace the beauty and sophistication of our Bifold Double Glazed Door carefully crafted with uncompromising expertise and unsurpassed quality The Double Glazed Doors are the ideal choice for the aspiring or an expert entertainer, offering an awe inspiring effect of an unobstructed opening onto a pool deck, garden, private beach, bushland or conservatory. The superior performance features are maintained in this style, offering acoustic insulation of upto 40 dB, with excellent energy efficiency rating measured by a u-value of 1.8, all while being corrosion resistant and environmentally friendly.   Get all the facts on double glazed bifold door

Make a grand entrance to your outdoor living area and impress your family and friends with our traditional and carefully crafted Double Glazed French Doors that add charm and elegance to any home! Double Glazed French Doors open and close like conventional doors, and with an outswing design can save interior space, where it is limited. Combine with a wheelchair accessible threshold, a sidelight/ fixed panel or colonial bars that add the classic look of divided light, and Double Glazed French Doors will become a stunning feature of your home!   Greater detail on double glazed french door can be found here

The Double Glazed Stacker Door has two or more (upto 6) panels, with one panel sliding past another, and all of the panels resting or being 'stacked' on one or two sides. They are a great alternative to Bifold Double Glazed Doors, when the client prefers the sliding style over the Bifold, or when space is at a premium, since with Stacker or Sliding Double Glazed Doors you need not worry about furniture placement or possible exterior obstacles. These doors feature ease of operation and maintenance, a universally appealing design that will complement any modern home.   Greater detail on double glazed stacker door can be found here

Every day we face tough new challenges and innovate according to our clients' needs and desires, leaving a lasting impression on everyone with our Double Glazed Windows. The most versatile and flexible window that retains its popularity through the changing trends in architecture and interior design is the Double Glazed Tilt & Turn window, which adapts to the users intention to ventilate, clean or insulate through unique hardware and security features. As well as the possibility of opening inwards or outwards, by turning the handle, clients will have the option to tilt the window inside slightly and ventilate or clean the window easily. And of course, for extraordinary performance in acoustic and thermal insulation for full control of the environment inside your home, you will be close it shut and lock it indefinitely for extra security.   For supplementary material on double glazed tilt & turn window click here

Double Glazed Windows and Doors' focus is to keep the costs down - and this is transferred to the client in form of lower prices. Our staff are constantly maintaining and improving our processes for maximum automation and efficiency to maintain leadership and set high standards in the double glazing industry. In order to compete on price, Double Glazed Windows and Doors have created a lean business, and due to almost complete automation using high tech machinery, a considerably better class and value double-glazed product. Continued on the double glazed factory page.   A complete guide for double glazed factory can be found here

After the double glazed windows are delivered to your home or the construction site, ideally they should be installed as soon as possible, to minimise the risk of accidental damage. However, we understand that this may not be practical if there are other renovation or construction work being completed - in this case, it is best to store the double glazed window/ door frames and glass separately and in an area with limited access, so that the upvc window frames and insulated glass units experience the least movement possible.   To obtain additional information on double glazed handling and storage

Double Glazed Windows and Doors uses only quality hardware. Maco Secure guarantees the performance of their double glazed upvc window and door hardware against break-in through failure of their products. Should in the unlikely event of a break-in through the double glazed window hardware Maco Secure will re-imburse any insurance excesses up to a maximum. Get the answers on your questions on double glazed hardware on this page.   More info on double glazed hardware

Double Glazed Windows and Doors are a lasting source of value for your home through sustainable energy savings and ease of use, as well as adding a timeless elegance that will improve appearance and resale value of your home. Thin or slender window and door frames can make even a well built home seem cheaply built, whereas sturdy and substantial window and door frames will highlight the quality finishes and reinforce the unassailability of your home. Our Double Glazed Windows and Doors are very price competitive, and although they are more expensive than standard aluminium sliding windows they will work for you and pay for themselves over the years in energy savings, cheaper maintenance, improved comfort and higher resale value of your home. With the savings in energy costs, we estimate that the Double Glazed Windows and Doors can pay for themselves in 7 years.   To obtain additional information on double glazed value for money

We only use quality extrusion that has been rigorously tested for UV radiation in harsh environments in desert or mountain conditions. The profile has been specifically formulated for Australian conditions to thwart potential damage from the sun. Un-reinforced uPVC window profiles have a lack of rigidity and a high coefficient of expansion. To avoid preventable damage, we always reinforce all our windows and door frames with aluminium or steel, according to customer requirements.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed uv resistance click here

The all-round customer-friendly double glazed products offer an enhanced appearance as well as superior fabrication ease and performance. Together, the advanced form and function of sliding window system ensure lasting high quality, simple installation and satisfied customers. The Rehau Euroslide Design can be used to make a wide variety of upvc sliding double glazed windows and doors. Three main categories of pvcu window and door design can be fabricated.   Extra information about double glazed euroslide staker can be found here

Is the most cost effective option because the features of this type of glass are rather basic. Float glass refers to a completely flat plane of clear glass. The term float is derived from the production method, and this type of glass is also often referred to as flat glass.   Additional information on double glazed float glass can be found at this location

Delivery of double glazed windows, doors and products within 100km of the Sydney Metropolitan Region does not attract a fuel surcharge. If your order is comprised of only a few double glazing items, we can operate a multi drop delivery system to save you money. This method allows us to service multiple customers in the same area who share the truck and the delivery cost. This is optional and customers who have urgent needs for delivery of their double glazed upvc windows and doors can always opt for a direct delivery. Check the Delivery Schedule page for more information.   More info on double glazed delivery areas

Our Double Glazed Windows and Doors are difficult to break and when they break, they create a lot of noise. Our window units also come equipped with security systems such as multi-point locks, double-locking handles and hinge-side security devices. Windows made out of upvc, can only be forced open from outside with a great deal of ingenuity, time and physical strength. This is because plastic provides a tighter seal around the glass and it does not shrink like wooden frames sometimes do.   Get all the facts on double glazed added security

Irrespective of the type of glass you choose for your windows and doors, you will be reassured of high quality through our warranty committment to you. All the glass we use in our windows and doors comply with Australian standards. We will repair or replace the insulated glass unit found to be defective within the applicable period and in accordance with the purchase contract.   Examine all the facts on double glazed glass warranty page

We appreciate the need to live in harmony with one's surroundings, both architecturally and environmentally, that is why our extensive range of colour combinations attracts many professionals seeking the combination of an eclectic colour range with a cutting edge technology. Our double glazed window and door colour profiles can be manufactured so that the profile beneath the veneer is not white, but has been made to match the veneer colour. The advantage of this method is, that in the event of an accidental damage to the surface, white fragments will not be visible and the double glazed window or door retains its original aesthetic appearance. Read more on double glazed colours.   For more information double glazed colours

Is a sandwich made of one thin layer of plastic Poly Vinyl Butyral between two or more sheets of glass. The PVB sticks with the glass, forms chemical as well as mechanical bonds. When laminated with annealed glass, the layer maintains the geometric integrity of the pane in case of breakage.
Also, it gives acoustic insulation as well as providing protection against damage caused due to UV radiation because it cuts almost 99% of UV radiation present in the sunlight.   For supplementary material on double glazed laminated glass click here