9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are many choices to pick from, whether you prefer uPVC sash or aluminium casements. They can be adapted to meet your aesthetic requirements and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of benefits such as noise reduction and UV protection, as well as property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should you do if your double glazed is showing signs of wear?

1. Excessive Condensation

In the winter, when windows and doors are closed, condensation may form inside the glass panes if the air temperature is warmer than the window's surface. This is a natural occurrence that can be prevented by opening windows, improving ventilation more generally, running a dehumidifier and keeping moisture levels low with extractor fans. However, if condensation forms regularly on the interior of your windows this is a sign that the double glazing has failed and it needs replacing as soon as possible.

However, condensation on the outside of your windows is a common event and indicates that the double glazing unit is performing as it should. The condensation outside your windows in the morning is caused by the temperature of the cold glass dropping below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window, where it condenses. This can be exacerbated by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, it is a far more serious problem and it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken which allows warm air from your home to find its way in while insulating gas is lost. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and, if left untreated will greatly impact your energy bills.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows immediately you detect this kind of condensation can drastically decrease the chance that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the end. The replacement window locks of your double-glazed windows can also be a great opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing can provide many benefits that include cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. But, like every other product double glazed windows have a lifespan and it is important to be aware of the signs that they are reaching the limit of their utility.

Visible condensation is among the most obvious indicators. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two panes. If you notice it this could be a sign that the window pane replacement seals have failed.

If the window seal fails, then cold air is able to enter your home. This not only wastes energy but can also cause damp and mould and both are costly to fix. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, as they can cause allergies and irritations that could impact the wellbeing of your family.

Draughts are another indication of sealants beginning to wear. This lets outside noises into your home, which can be distracting. This can impact your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home can feel.

If the windows are not opening and closing smoothly It's also an indication that they should be changed. It could be a security issue if your windows do not open in an emergency situation like the event of a house fire. This is something you should not ignore. A qualified window fitter can examine the condition of your current windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts entering your windows, it is typically a sign that the seals within your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes together and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather changes or simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts may be happening is because the frame of your window is distorted and not sealing properly. The moisture can also get caught inside the window frame, causing drafts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.

A misted double glazed window is a clear sign that the sealed unit has developed a leak or the gas between the panes has escaped. This is a serious problem and it will need replacing immediately to stop water from entering your home, preventing heat from escaping and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Chips and cracks in your double-glazed windows aren't always a sign they need replacing, but they can have a negative impact on their overall performance. While they allow cold air to pass through, they can reduce the amount of light allowed to pass through and can cause drafts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they might not be able support the weight of replacement double glazing windows units and would require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant cost for a household and it is essential to keep them as low as is possible. Energy bills that are high not only consume a significant portion of your budget, they also put unnecessary strain on the environment - something that we all want to reduce our impact of. Leaky windows are a major cause of high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home and create drafts that require the use of additional energy to heat your house. The replacement of double glazing with energy efficient windows can help to reduce energy costs and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation between double-glazed panes, it is a sign that your windows need to be replaced. It is a sign that the seal is broken which means that air is getting in and out of your house and that the insulation isn't working as it should be.

Another indication that your double glazing is in need of replacement is if they're misting up. This is a clear indicator that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the panes of glass. The replacement of your double glazing will prevent moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

You can reduce energy usage, improve the look of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. This will also boost the value of your home and make it more attractive to prospective buyers should you decide to sell. You are likely to save PS115 in heating expenses per year with double glazing that is rated as category B. This will pay for your windows.

5. Faulty Windows

If you have a double glazed window that has become foggy, misty or hazy, this is an early sign that the seal has failed. It's also a sign that the glass has lost its insulation value and could lead to draughts and condensation. In addition, the gap around the edges of your windows can allow water to enter and damage your wall or plaster. This can also be a serious fire risk.

It is crucial to get your double glazing repaired immediately when the glass is becoming blurred. This could be a security issue. It may also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss of insulation.

The misty windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas in the glass - typically argon or krypton - assists in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas leaks out, which causes the window to fog up.

Check your warranty to see whether it covers seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee, based on the time of the window glass replacements. This is something worth considering.

Other indicators that your uPVC window should be replaced include: