13 Things You Should Know About Replacement Double Glazing Windows That You Might Never Have Known

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide range of options available to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits like noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security of your property with 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.

Condensation on the outside of the windows is normal and indicates that the double glazing unit is operating just as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs because of the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of surrounding air, causing water vapour to be drawn up from the air and into the cold glass, which then condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that create excess moisture in your house as well as by high levels humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing in your double glazing, it is an issue that is more serious. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes has broken. This allows warm air from your home to enter while the gas that is used to insulate escapes. This could cause significant damage to your double glazing and if not addressed, could have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double glazing when you first notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the likelihood that the problem will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long run. 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 will lower your utility costs.

2. Wear and tear

Double glazing can provide a variety of benefits such as noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. However, as with any other product double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it's important to be aware of indicators that they're reaching the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is the visible condensation. This is due to the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you notice this, it's an indication that the window seal has failed and it's time to have the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails, then cold air can be allowed to enter your home which not only wastes energy but also can cause damp and mould both of which are expensive to fix. Both mould and damp can be detrimental to your health as they can cause allergies and irritations that could impact the health of your family.

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

In the end, if windows no longer open and close smoothly it is also an indication that they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open in an emergency such as an emergency fire, and should not be overlooked. A professional window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts out of your windows, it is likely that the seals on your double glazing have blown. Sealants are used to keep the glass panes together and help with insulation, but it is often damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. In the result cold air is able to enter your home, while warm air escapes, leading to draughts and lower energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts could be causing the problem is that the window's frame is bent and not sealing correctly. The moisture can also get caught within the window frame, leading to drafts over time. This is a serious problem and it is essential to get your double glazing replaced as soon as is possible to avoid any further issues.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and you will need to replace it as soon as possible to stop water from getting into your property. It also prevents heat from escaping, and decrease the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Double glazing cracks and chips are not always a sign of needing to be replaced however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount light that passes through, which can cause drafts. In addition If there are significant cracks or chips in your windows, it is unlikely that they will be able to bear the weight of a replacement window glass unit, which will require the creation of a new window frame.

4. More Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only consume a significant portion of your budget, but they also put unnecessary pressure on the environment - something we all want to reduce our impact of. One of the most significant causes of rising energy bills is leaky windows, which not only allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that require you to use more energy to heat your home. The replacement of double glazing with windows that are energy efficient will reduce your energy bills and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation forming between the panes of your double glazing it's a clear indication that they need to be replaced. It's a sign that the seal is broken and air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation is not working as it should.

Another sign that your double glazing requires replacement is if they are misting up. This is a clear indication that the seal has broken and replaced water is accumulating between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will prevent moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from escaping and help to keep your home warm.

By having your double-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy efficient window you will be able to conserve heat, lower your energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. 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 costs each year by using double glazing that is rated as category B. This will pay off 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 blurred, it is important to get this repaired as soon as you can, as it's an immediate safety risk. It could also result in more in energy bills due to 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 argon - aids in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas escapes, causing the window to fog up.

A premature seal failure is a clear indicator of a problem with the product, so be sure to check your warranty for coverage. In some cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this could be an option worth considering.

Other indicators that your uPVC window should be replaced include: