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

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC sash window replacement windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast variety of options to fit 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.

However, what can you do when your double-glazed windows show 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.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is a common event and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it is supposed to. Condensation outside your windows in mornings is due to the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of air surrounding it. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window where it condenses. This can be exacerbated by plants that create excess moisture in your home and also by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation in your double glazing, it could be an even more serious issue. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from inside your home to pass through while the insulating gas escapes. This can cause serious damage to your double-glazed windows, and if not addressed, could result in a significant increase in your energy bill.

Installing replacement double Glazing windows double glazing immediately after this type of condensation is noticed will decrease the likelihood that it will worsen and cost you more in the end. Replacing your double glazing can also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy-efficient windows which will make your home more comfortable and reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing has many benefits, such as cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. However, just like any other type of window, double-glazed windows have a lifespan and it's important to be aware of the indicators that they're reaching the point of no return.

Condensation visible is one of the most evident indicators. This is caused by the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and replacement double glazing windows if you notice this, it's a sign that the window seal has failed, and it's time for the windows replaced.

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

Draughts are another sign of sealants beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a huge distracting factor, especially when you live near an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home or how peaceful your home can feel.

If the windows are not opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also an indication that they should be replaced. It could be a security issue if your windows don't open in a crisis situation like the event of a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able assess the condition of the windows you currently have and make recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts out of your windows, it's likely that the seals on your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather changes or simply ageing. This allows cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly can also cause drafts. The moisture can also get caught within the window frame, leading to the draughts to increase over time. This is a serious problem and it is essential to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as is possible to avoid any further problems.

A window that is misty is a clear indication that the sealed unit has developed an open leak or that the gas between the panes is escaping. This is a serious issue and needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from entering your home, preventing heat from escaping and decreasing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing replacement however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that flows through, leading to drafts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they might not be able to support the weight of replacement units and will require new frames for windows.

4. More Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant expense for replacement double glazing windows households and that's why it's crucial to keep them as low as is possible. High energy bills not only cost a lot of your budget, they also put unnecessary pressure on the environment, something we all want to try and do less of. Windows that leak are a major reason for high energy bills. They do not just let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause drafts that force you to use additional energy to heat your house. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows can aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation on 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 air is leaking in and out of the home. Insulation is also not working properly.

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 broken and water is accumulating between the panes of glass. Double glazing will stop moisture from entering your house and stop heat from leaving and keep your home warm.

By having your double glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy-efficient window, you can conserve heat, reduce your energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. It will also add value to your property which makes it more appealing for potential buyers if you decide to sell it in the near future. You are likely to save PS115 in heating costs each year by using double glazing rated category B. This will 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 as soon as you can when the glass is becoming misty. This can be a safety concern. It could also cost you 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, aids in insulation. When the seal fails the gas leaks, causing your window to become foggy.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear indicator of a defective product, so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. In certain cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this could be a viable option.

Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows include: