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

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's an extensive variety of options to suit the aesthetic of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing offers a variety of advantages that include noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can 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 common phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the cold glass temperature dropping 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 is made more difficult by plants that create excess moisture in your house and also by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing inside your double-glazed unit, this is a more serious problem and it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken and allows warm air from your home to find its way in while insulating gas is lost. This could cause significant damage to your double glazing, and if not addressed, could cause a significant impact on your energy bill.

Installing Replacement double glazing windows double glazing immediately you notice this type of condensation can drastically decrease the likelihood that the problem becomes worse, and save you money in the long term. It's also an excellent opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy-efficient A-rated windows. This will make your home more comfortable, and reduce your utility bills.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing can provide many benefits, such as cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. Like any product double glazed windows have a life span. It is crucial to be aware of the signs when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. This is because of the different temperature between the two panes. If you notice it this could be a sign that 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 are costly to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould are detrimental to health since they can cause allergens and irritants which can impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts are another indication of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows outside noise to enter your home, which can be a distraction. This can affect any work you might try to do at home or just how relaxing your home is.

If the windows aren't opening and closing smoothly It's also an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows aren't able to open in an emergency such as a fire and should not be overlooked. A professional window fitter will be able to evaluate the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts coming through your windows, this is usually a sign that seals inside your double glazing have failed. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes in place and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather changes or simply ageing. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window seal replacement frame that is misshaped and not sealing properly could cause draughts. As a result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which can also result in rotting and draughts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double glazing as quickly as you can.

A misted double-glazed window is an indication that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and you should replace it immediately in order to stop water from getting into your home. It also prevents the heat from leaving and will reduce the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing to be replaced however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that goes through, which can cause draughts. 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. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. High energy bills are not just expensive, but they also put unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to decrease the impact of this. One of the main reasons for rising energy costs is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape your home but also create drafts that force you to utilize more energy to heat your property. Energy efficient windows can help you save money and cut down on your energy costs.

If you notice condensation on the double-glazed panes, it's a sign that your windows need to be replaced. It's a sign that the seal has broken which means that air is getting in and out of your house and that the insulation is not functioning as it should.

If your double glazing is leaking, it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign the seal has been damaged and water is trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will prevent moisture from entering your home, preventing heat from escape and help keep your home warm.

By having your double glazed windows replaced with a new energy-efficient window, you can conserve heat, reduce your energy use and enhance the appearance of your home. This will also boost the value of your home, making it more appealing to potential buyers in the event that you decide to sell. You can expect to save PS115 in heating costs per year with double glazing that is rated as 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 replacement double glazing windows 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 cloudy, you must repair it as soon as you can as it's an immediate safety risk. It may also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss in insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misted windows. Gas inside the glass, usually Krypton or argon helps in insulating. When the seal fails this gas leaks out and causes your window to become cloudy.

Premature seal failure is a clear sign of a defective product so be sure to check your warranty for coverage. In certain cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, and this might be an option worth considering.

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