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 an extensive selection of options to fit the style of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing provides a host of benefits including noise reduction, UV-ray protection and property security from multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should 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 phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is functioning just as it should. Condensation outside your windows in mornings is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window where it condenses. This is aggravated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture as well as high humidity.

If condensation forms within your double glazing, this is a more serious issue and it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken which allows warm air from your home to find its way in while insulating gas is evaporating. 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 when this kind of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and save you money in the end. Replacing your double glazing 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 energy bills further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits such as noise insulation and savings on energy bills. Like any product double-glazed windows have a lifespan. It is important to recognize the signs when they are reaching the end of their lifespan.

Condensation visible is one of the most evident indicators. This is due to the differing temperatures 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 the cold air can get into your home. This not only wastes electricity but also leads to damp and mold. Both of these are costly to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to health as they can create allergens and irritants that could impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts around your windows are another indication that sealants have begun to wear. This allows outside noise into your home, which can be a distraction. This could affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home can feel.

If windows no longer open and close easily, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. This could be a security issue if the windows do not open when required in an emergency such as a fire, and should not be overlooked. A qualified window fitter will be able evaluate the condition of your current windows and offer suggestions on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts passing through your windows, this is usually a sign that seals in your double glazing have burst. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes in place and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts could be causing the problem is that the window's frame is distorted and not sealing properly. Moisture can also get trapped in the window frame, leading to drafts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double glazing as soon as you can.

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

Chips and cracks in your double glazing aren't always a sign they need replacing, but they can have a negative impact on their overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in it, they could limit the amount of light allowed to pass through and can cause draughts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement Double Glazing Windows units that will require new frames for windows.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not only costly however they also place unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Windows that leak are a major cause of high energy bills. They don't just let heat escape from your home and create drafts that require the use of additional energy to heat your house. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows will help to reduce energy costs and will save you money year after year.

If you see condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing it is a clear indication that they need to be replaced. It is a sign that the seal is broken, which means that air is leaking in and out of your house and that the insulation is not working as it should be.

Another indication that your double glazing requires replacement is if they're misting up. This is a clear indicator that the seal is broken and water is trapped between the panes of glass. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will stop moisture from entering your home, Replacement Double Glazing Windows stop heat escaping and help to keep your home warm.

You can cut down on energy consumption and improve the appearance of your home, and conserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. This will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers should you decide to sell. You are likely to save PS115 in heating bills each year by using double glazing that is classified as B. This will pay for 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 crucial to get your double glazing repaired immediately in the event that the glass has turned cloudy. This could be a safety issue. It could also result in more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.

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

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear sign of a defective product therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Certain manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, based on the age of your window. This is something you should consider.

Other indicators that your uPVC window pane replacement needs to be replaced include: