Replacement Double Glazing question

50Twuncle

We have just signed up for replacement double glazing and I suddenly realised that we have polystyrene beads as cavity insulation....
Will, removing the old double glazing units - allow the beads to spill out or are they somehow sealed in ?

Ben84

They're usually blown in with a glue to bind them together now, so depending on how long ago it was done and how well it was done, you may or may not have problems.

As for replacement windows, a lot of double glazing (usually the aluminum type) is installed with slim hardwood frames around the windows. If you have these and they're in good condition, reusing them may save you worrying about the insulation falling out?

aliasojo

My garden looked like a snowstorm had happened, when my windows were replaced. It was a huge pain sweeping those beads up. I suspect there are still some floating about even now, years later.

27col

It depends on how old the house is. Years ago there used to be a gap around the window openings where the beads could fall out if the window was removed.
However, it has been the case for many years that the cavities around window and door openings have had to be closed and incorporate a vertical damp course. I'm not sure how many years, but it is a long time ago.

50Twuncle

The house is around 60 years old and the cavity wall insulation was installed about 20 years ago !!