Nine Things That Your Parent 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 suit the aesthetic of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages such as noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security through 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 the windows is normal and is a sign that the double glazing unit is working as it is supposed to. Condensation outside your windows during the morning is caused by 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 made more difficult by plants that create excessive moisture in your home and also by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation in your double glazing, this is an issue that is more serious. It is an indication that the seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from your home to enter while the insulating gas escapes. This can cause severe damage to your double-glazed windows, and if not addressed, could result in a significant increase in the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is discovered will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and save you money 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 that will make your home more comfortable and reducing your costs for energy.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing offers many advantages including reducing energy bills and reducing noise. However, as with any other product double glazed windows have a life span and it's important to be aware of the signs that they are reaching the point of no return.

Condensation visible is one of the most obvious indicators. This is because of the different temperatures between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be an indication that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal fails then cold air is able to enter your home which is not just a waste of energy, but also can cause damp and mould both of which are costly to fix. Both damp and mould can be dangerous to your health, as they can cause allergies and irritations that can affect the wellbeing of your family.

Draughts are another sign of sealants that have begun to wear. This allows outside noise into your home, which can be distracting. This can impact your ability to work from home or how peaceful your home feels.

If the windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also an indication that they should be changed. This could be a safety issue if the windows fail to open when required in the event of a fire, and should not be overlooked. A qualified window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you see draughts emanating from your windows, it is likely that the seals in your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to hold the glass panes together and aid with insulation, but it is often damaged due to changes in weather or by simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, which can cause drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

A window frame that is misshaped and is not sealed properly could cause draughts. In the result, moisture may get trapped within the frame, which will also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and it is important to have your double glazing replaced as soon as you can to avoid further problems.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is a sign 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 prevent water getting into your home, preventing heat from leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still under warranty, contact the company and they will be able to replace windows for you.

Cracks and chips in your double-glazed windows aren't always a sign that they require replacement, but they could have a negative impact on their overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that flows through, leading to draughts. Additionally when there are large cracks or chips on your windows, it's likely that they won't be able to support the weight of a replacement double glazing windows unit which will require a new window frame.

4. More Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant expense for households and that's why it is essential to keep them as low as you can. High energy bills are not only costly, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to decrease this. 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 home. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows can aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.

If you see condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it's a clear indication that they need replacing. It is a sign that the seal has failed which means that air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation isn't working as it should.

If your double glazing is getting misty it's time to replace them. This is a clear indicator that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the panes of glass. Double glazing will prevent moisture from entering your house and will stop heat from escape and keep your home warm.

You can save energy, 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, making it more appealing to prospective buyers should you decide to sell. You will save PS115 in heating costs each year by using double glazing that is classified as 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.

If the glass in your double glazing has turned misty, it's important to get this repaired as soon as possible as it is a safety concern. It may also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

The misty windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas in the glass - typically Krypton or replacement double glazing windows argon - aids with insulation, and when the seal fails this gas leaks out, which causes the window to become fogged.

Check your warranty to determine if it covers premature seal failure. In some cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty that is based on the age of your windows, and this might be an option worth considering.

Other signs that your uPVC window should be replaced include: