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

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide selection of options to suit the aesthetic of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing has many advantages that include noise reduction and UV protection, as well as property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should 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.

However, condensation on the outside of your windows is a common occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows during the morning is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold 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 is made more difficult by plants that generate excess moisture in your house and by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing in your double glazing, this is an even more serious issue. It is an indication that the 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 can cause severe damage to your double glazing and if untreated, will have a significant impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows as soon as you detect this kind of condensation will drastically reduce the chance that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long term. Replacing your double glazing can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows that will make your home more comfortable as well as reducing your energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. But, like every other product double glazed windows have a lifespan and it is important to be aware of signs that they are reaching the point of no return.

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

If the window seal fails, then cold air can be allowed to enter your home which not only wastes energy but can also lead to damp and mould, both of which are expensive to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to your health because they can produce allergens and irritants which can affect your family's health.

Draughts around windows are another sign that the sealants are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to be heard in your home, which can be a big distraction, particularly when you live near an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This could affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.

If the windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner it's an indication that they should be changed. It can be a safety issue if the windows don't open in an emergency situation like a house fire. This is a sign that you should not ignore. A professional window installer will be able evaluate the condition of the windows you have and offer suggestions on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts entering your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals in your double glazing have burst. Sealant is used to encase the glass panes and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather changes or simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, which can cause the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly could also lead to draughts. Moisture can also get trapped within the window frame, creating the draughts to increase as time passes. This is a serious problem and it is crucial to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as possible to avoid further problems.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance indicates that the sealed unit has leaking or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious problem and you must replace window handles it as soon as possible to prevent water from entering your property. It will also stop the heat from leaving and decrease the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a sign of needing to be replaced however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They can also reduce the amount of light that flows through, causing drafts. In addition when there are large cracks or chips in your windows, it's unlikely that they'll be able to support the weight of a replacement double glazing windows unit, which would require the creation of a new window frame.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major expense for households and it's important to keep them as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only take a chunk out of your budget, but they also put unnecessary strain on the environment, something we all wish to reduce our impact of. One of the most significant causes of skyrocketing energy bills is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that force you to utilize more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows will reduce your energy bills and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it's an indication that your windows must be replaced. It's a sign the seal has broken which means that air is entering and out of your house and that the insulation isn't working as it should be.

Another indication that your double glazing is in need of replacement is if they're misting up. This is a sign that the seal is broken and water is leaking between the glass panes. Double glazing will stop the entry of moisture into 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 heat, reduce your energy use and enhance the appearance of your home. This will also increase the value of your home, making it more appealing to prospective buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With Category B rated double glazing you can expect to save up to PS115 per year on heating costs, which will swiftly pay for 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.

If the glass in your double glazing has become cloudy, you must repair it as soon as you can, as it's an immediate safety risk. Additionally, it could be costing you more in energy bills than necessary because of the loss of insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misty windows. Gas inside the glass, usually argon or krypton aids in insulation. If the seal fails the gas leaks which causes the window to become foggy.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear indicator replacement double glazing windows of a defective product therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee that is based on the age of the window. This is something to consider.

Other signs that your uPVC window replacement near me requires to be replaced include: