Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
No matter if you're looking for uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide range of options available to suit the aesthetic of your property and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing offers a variety of advantages that include noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security with multipoint locking mechanisms.
What can 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.
Condensation on the outside of your windows is normal and indicates that your double glazing unit is operating just as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows in the morning is due to the temperature of the cold glass dropping below the dewpoint of air surrounding it. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This can be made worse by plants that create excess moisture in your home as well as by high levels humidity.
If you notice condensation appearing within your double glazing, it is a far more serious issue and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken which allows warm air from your house to get in while insulating gas is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing, and if untreated, will have a significant impact on your energy bill.
Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is noticed can reduce the likelihood that it will get worse and cost you more in the end. The replacement double glazing windows of your double-glazed windows can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows which will make your home more comfortable as well as reducing your costs for energy.
2. Wear and tear signs
Double glazing can provide many benefits including the reduction of energy costs and noise. But, like every other item, double glazed windows have a life span and it's important to be aware of the indications that they are nearing the end of their usefulness.
Visible condensation is one of the most obvious indicators. This is due to the differing temperature between the two panes. If you notice it, it could be a sign the window seals have failed.
If the window seal is not working, then cold air can be allowed to enter your home, which does more than just waste energy but also can cause damp and mould both of which are costly to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould can be harmful to health because they can produce allergens and irritants that can affect your family's health.
Draughts around your windows are another sign that the sealants have started to wear. This can allow outside noise to be heard in your home, which can be a big distraction, especially if you live close to the road that is busy or has noisy neighbors. This can affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.
In the end, if windows aren't opening and close easily, it's an indication that they need to be replaced. This could be a safety issue if windows aren't able to open when required in an emergency such as a fire and should not be overlooked. A qualified window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your current windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.
3. Draughts
If you've noticed drafts entering your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals within your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes in place and provide insulation. However, it can be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. As a result cold air is able to enter your home, while warm air escapes, leading to draughts and lower energy efficiency.
Another reason why draughts might be occurring is that the window's frame is distorted and not sealing correctly. This means that moisture could get trapped inside the frame, which will also cause rotting and replacement double glazing windows draughts as time passes. This is a serious issue and you should replace your double-glazed windows as soon as you can.
A misted double glazed window replacement near me 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 needs to be repaired immediately to prevent water entering your property, stopping heat from leaving and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.
Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a signal of needing replacement, but they may affect the overall performance. While they allow cold air to enter it, they could limit the amount of light allowed through and lead to drafts. Additionally If there are significant cracks or chips on your windows, it is unlikely that they will be able to bear the weight of a replacement unit which would require an entirely new window frame.
4. Higher Utility Bills
It is important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only take a chunk out of your budget, they also put unnecessary stress on the environment, something we all wish to try and do less of. One of the main causes of skyrocketing energy bills is leaky windows, which let heat escape from your home, but also create drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your property. Energy efficient windows can help you save money as well as reduce your energy costs.
If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it's an indication that your windows require to be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means that air is leaking out of the home. The insulation may not be working properly.
Another sign that your double glazing is in need of replacing is if they are misting up. This is a clear sign that the seal is broken and water is trapped between the panes of glass. Double glazing will prevent water from entering your home, stop heat from escaping and keep your home warm.
By having your double-glazed windows replaced with a new energy-efficient window, you will be able to conserve the heat, cut down on energy usage and improve the appearance of your home. It will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to prospective buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With category B-rated double glazing, you can anticipate saving up to PS115 per year in 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.
It is important to have your double glazing repaired immediately if the glass has become cloudy. This could be a safety issue. Additionally, it could be costing you more in energy bills than necessary 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). Gas within the glass, typically Krypton or argon helps with insulation. When the seal fails the gas leaks, causing your window to fog.
A premature seal failure is a clear indicator of a problem with the product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, based on the age of your window. This may be something to consider.
Other indicators that you should to replace your uPVC windows are:
