The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide selection of options to match the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing has many benefits, including 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.

In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a common event and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the cold glass temperature dropping below the dew point of the surrounding air, causing water vapour to rise from the air and into the cold glass, where it cools. This is aggravated by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture as well as high humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing within your double glazing, this is a much more serious problem and it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken and allows warm air from your house to enter while insulating gas is lost. This could cause significant damage to your double glazing and if left untreated will result in a significant increase in your energy bill.

Installing replacement double glazing immediately after this type of condensation is discovered can reduce the likelihood that it will get worse, saving you money in the end. Replacing your double glazing can also be a great opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows that will make your home more comfortable and reducing energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing can provide a variety of benefits such as noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. Like all other products double glazed windows have a life span. It is important to recognize the signs when they are at the end of their lifespan.

Visible condensation is among the most obvious indicators. This is because of the different temperature between the two panes. If you notice it, it could be a sign that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal fails then cold air is able to enter your home which not only wastes energy but can also cause damp and mould, both of which are expensive to fix. Additionally, both damp and mould can be harmful to health since they can cause allergens and irritants that can affect the health of your family.

Draughts are another indication of sealants that are beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home which can be a major distracting factor, especially when you live near a busy road or noisy neighbors. This can affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home is.

Finally, if the windows aren't opening and Replacement Double Glazing Windows close smoothly, it's an indication that they need to be replaced. It could be a security concern if your windows aren't opening in a crisis situation, such as a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able to assess the condition of the windows you currently have and make recommendations regarding the best option.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts passing through your windows, it's usually a sign that seals inside your double glazing have burst. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. In the result, cold air comes into your home, and warm air is emitted which can cause draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts could be happening is because the window's frame has become misshapen and is not sealing correctly. This means that moisture can get trapped in the frame, which could also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double glazing as quickly as you can.

A misted double glazed window is a clear sign that your sealed unit has sprung an open leak or that the gas between the panes is escaping. This is a serious problem and you should replace it right away to stop water from entering your property. It also prevents the heat from leaving and will reduce the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing aren't always a signal of needing replacement double glazing windows however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that goes through, which can cause draughts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be strong enough to support the weight of Replacement Double Glazing Windows units, which will require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major cost for a household and it's important to keep them as low as possible. High energy bills not only take a chunk out of your budget, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment - something we all wish to reduce our impact of. Leaky windows are a major reason for high energy costs. They don't just let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your house. Energy efficient windows can help you save money and cut down on your energy costs.

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it is a clear sign that they need replacing. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which indicates that air is leaking in and out of the house. The insulation is also not functioning properly.

Another indication that your double glazing requires replacement is if they're misting up. This indicates that the seal is broken and that water is trapped between the glass panes. The replacement of your double glazing will stop water from entering your home, prevent heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

You can save energy and enhance the appearance of your home, and conserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. It will also increase the value of your property which makes it more appealing to potential buyers should you decide to sell in the near future. With Category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save up to PS115 per year on heating costs, which can quickly cover the cost of your new 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.

If the glass in your double glazing is becoming cloudy, you must fix it as quickly as possible as it is an issue of safety. It could also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas inside the glass - usually Krypton or argon - aids in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas leaks out, causing the window to fog up.

A premature seal failure is a clear sign of a defective product so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. Certain manufacturers offer a prorated warranty in accordance with the age of the window. This could be something you should consider.

Other indicators that your uPVC window requires to be replaced include: