9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's an extensive range of options available to fit the style of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with many benefits, like noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and property security from multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can you do if your double glazing 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 normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning just as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows in the morning is due to the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of surrounding air. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window, where it condenses. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, 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 home to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double glazing, and if left untreated will result in a significant increase in the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and save you money in the end. The replacement of your double-glazed windows can also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing offers many advantages including the reduction of energy costs and noise. Like any product double glazed windows have a lifespan. It is important to know the signs of when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is the visible condensation. It is caused by the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you notice this, it's an indication that the window seal has failed, and replacement Double Glazing windows it's time for the windows replaced.

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

Draughts are another indication of sealants beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to be heard in your home, which can be a huge distraction, especially if you live close to an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This could affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.

If the windows aren't opening and closing with ease, it's also a sign they need to be changed. This can be a safety issue if the windows aren't able to open when required in an emergency such as a fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter can assess the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best method of action.

3. Draughts

If you see draughts emanating out of your windows, it's likely that the seals on your double glazing have burst. Sealant is used to secure the glass panes together and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. As a result cold air enters your home and warm air is emitted which can cause draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts could be causing the problem is that the frame of your window is distorted and not sealing properly. Moisture can also get trapped in the window frame, leading to the draughts to increase over time. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is an indication that the sealed unit has let out or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and should be addressed immediately to stop water from getting into your home, preventing heat from leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still under guarantee, check with the company, and they'll be able to fix windows for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing replacement windows, but they may have an impact on the overall performance. They may also limit the amount light that passes through, leading to drafts. Additionally when there are large cracks or chips on your windows, it's likely that they won't be able to withstand the weight of a replacement unit, which will require an entirely new window frame.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major expense for households, which is why it's crucial to keep them as low as possible. Energy bills that are high not only consume a significant portion of your budget, they also put unnecessary pressure on the environment - something we all wish to be able to less of. One of the biggest reasons for rising energy costs is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape your home but also create drafts that require you to use more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using windows that are energy efficient will reduce your energy bills and save you money year after year.

If you see condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing it is a clear sign that they need to be replaced. It's a sign the seal has failed and air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation is not working as it should.

If your double glazing is getting misty, it's time to replace the glass. This is a clear indication that the seal is broken and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. The replacement Double Glazing windows of your double glazing will prevent moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from escaping and help to keep your home warm.

You can cut down on energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This will also boost the value of your home which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With category B rated double glazing, you can expect to save as much as PS115 per year on heating costs, which can quickly pay for 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 blurred, it is important to repair it as soon as possible as it is a safety concern. It could also result in more in energy bills due to the loss of insulation.

Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas in the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails, this gas escapes, causing the window to fog up.

Check your warranty to see whether it covers premature seal failure. In some cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this may be a viable option.

Other indicators that you should to replace your uPVC windows are: