how do you remove and refit a double glazed unit?

I have aluminium double glazing.How do I get a unit out to fit a replacement?
Tnx,
Gavin

gavin tasker
February 2010

1)The most difficult DG units to replace are fitted to wooden frames. Measure the u/s unit before removal, width- height and thickness- state if - patterned -or toughened and and have it delivered before starting the job . Do not attempt to smash the window out(messy and labourious) but have a bin handy anyway.If wooden beading has been used gently ease out to locate nails. Order new replacement beading if necassery. Glaziers have a chisel shaped like a knife (which will take a lot of stick from a hammer) This is used to remove old putty holding u/s DG unit, and clear out the rebates in which the new unit sits. Replenish frame with fresh putty(brown or white) fit new unit secure with glazing snigs(galvanised tacks) dress beading with putty fit and secure with galvanised snigs. Clear surplus putty and clean window. If the unit is very large you will need to hire a glass sucker to enable a grip for lift and removal .
2) The Upvc window is specically designed to house a dg unit and is a less laborious task. DG units can be removed form either inside or outside the house depending on the securing upvc beading, which indicates the side unit comes out.To remove the unit a rubber gasket must be removed to unlock the securing beads aroung the unit. This gasket is usually on the opposite side of the glass to the secured beading . Remove by gently easing the rubber gasket out from the corners remembering the way it comes out(for refixing) When this is removed the window will move enough to facilitate moving the unit to release securing beads.Remove securing beads taking care not to lose the rubber gasket attached. The unit can now be removed . Notice if the unit was sat on spacers(usually two) to allow clearence from drainage.No need to remove these just make sure the new unit sits on them when fitted. Replace unit and beads and secure by replacing rubber gasket from opposite side by pushing in with fingers and tapping with rubbe hammer. Finally check on the securing beading gasket and sometimes the securing beading(the upvc ) need to me tapped home with rubber hammer.
I hope this helps. - Powerfulheart

powerfulheart@
June 2007