10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast variety of options to match the style of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing offers a host of benefits including noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security for your home with multipoint locking mechanisms.

But, what do you do when your double glazing shows signs of wear and tear?

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 normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it is supposed to. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of surrounding air, causing water vapour to be drawn up from the air into the cold glass, where it condenses. This can be made worse by plants that generate excess moisture in your house and replacement double Glazing windows also by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation in your double glazing, it is a more serious problem. It's a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from inside your home to get in while the gas that is used to insulate escapes. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and if it is not addressed will greatly impact the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows immediately you notice this type of condensation can drastically decrease the chance that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long run. Replacing your double glazing can also be a great opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing offers many advantages including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. However, as with any other item, double glazed windows have a lifespan and it's crucial to be aware of indicators that they're reaching the limit of their utility.

Visible condensation is among the most evident indicators. This is due to the differing temperature between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be a sign the window seals have failed.

If the window seal is damaged, cold air can enter your home. This is not only a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mould. Both of them are costly to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould can be harmful to health since they can cause allergens and irritants that could affect your family's health.

Draughts are another indication of sealants beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a huge distraction, especially in the case of an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.

In the end, if windows no longer open and close easily, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. It can be a safety issue if your windows do not open in an emergency situation, such as an incident involving fire in your home. This is something you should not ignore. A qualified window fitter will be able evaluate the condition of your current windows and give suggestions on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming out of your windows, it's likely that the seals on your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to secure the glass panes together and help with insulation, but this can often be damaged due to changes in weather or by simply ageing. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be happening is because the frame of your window is bent and not sealing correctly. As a result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which will also cause draughts and rotting as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double glazing as quickly as possible.

A double-glazed window that has a mist is a clear sign that your sealed unit has sprung a leak or the gas between the panes is escaping. This is a serious issue and you must replace it immediately in order to stop water from entering your home. It also stops heat from escaping and decrease the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Chips and cracks in your double glazing aren't always a sign that they require replacement double glazing windows however they can have a negative impact on their overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that flows through, which can cause drafts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they may not be able support the weight of replacement units that would require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your 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 that we all want to be able to less of. Windows that leak are a major cause of high energy bills. They do not just let heat escape from your home and create draughts which require the use of additional energy to heat your home. Energy efficient windows can help you save money and reduce your energy costs.

If you notice condensation between double glazing replacement windows-glazed panes, it's a sign that your windows need to be replaced. This is a sign of a broken seal, which indicates that air is leaking out of the house. The insulation may not be functioning properly.

If your double glazing is leaking it's time to replace them. This is a clear indication that the seal has failed and water is trapped between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will stop moisture from entering your home, stop heat leaving and help keep your house warm.

You can cut down on energy consumption, 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 buyers should you decide to sell. You will save PS115 in heating bills each year by using double glazing rated category B. This will quickly pay for the cost of 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 essential to get your double glazing fixed immediately if the glass has become blurred. This can be a security issue. It could also result in more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misted windows. Gas inside the glass, mostly argon, or krypton, helps in insulating. When the seal is damaged the gas leaks which causes the window to become cloudy.

Premature seal failure is a clear sign of a defective product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty that is based on the time of the window. This could be something worth considering.

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