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

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's a vast variety of options to match the style of your property and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing offers a variety of advantages such as noise reduction, UV protection and property 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.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is normal and is a sign that your double glazing system is working just as it should. Condensation outside your windows in mornings is caused by the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the air surrounding it. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This can be made worse by plants that create excessive moisture in your home and by high levels of humidity.

If condensation forms within your double glazing, this is a much more serious issue. It is an indication that the seal between the two glass panes is broken which allows warm air from your house to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and, if left untreated it will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing Replacement double glazing windows double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is discovered will reduce the chance that it will worsen and save you money in the end. Replacement of your double glazing could also be a great opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing your energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of advantages, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. Like all products double-glazed windows have a life span. It is important to recognize the signs when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation. This is caused by the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you notice this, it's a sign that the window seal is damaged and it's time for the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails then cold air will be able to enter your home. This does more than just waste energy but also can cause damp and mould both of which cost a lot to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to your health because they can produce allergens and irritants that could impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts around windows are another indication that the sealants are beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home and be a huge distraction, particularly if you live close to the road that is busy or has noisy neighbours. This could affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.

If the windows are not opening and closing in a smooth manner It's also a sign they need to be changed. It could be a safety issue if your windows aren't opening in a crisis situation, such as the event of a house fire. This is something you should not ignore. A professional window installer can examine the condition of the windows you have and offer suggestions on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming from your windows, it's likely that the seals on your double glazing have blown. Sealants are used to secure the glass panes together and help with insulation, but it can be damaged due to changes in weather or by simply ageing. In the result cold air is able to enter your home, while warm air escapes which can cause draughts and lower energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be causing the problem is that the frame of your window is bent and not sealing properly. In the result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which will also cause draughts and rotting as time passes. This is a serious problem and it is important to have your double glazing replaced as soon as is possible to avoid any further problems.

A double-glazed window that is misty indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious issue and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water getting into your home, preventing heat from escaping and decreasing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still under guarantee, check with the company, and they'll be able to repair them for you.

Cracks and chips in your double-glazed windows aren't necessarily a sign that they require replacement however, they can have a negative impact on the overall performance. While they allow cold air to enter and out, they can also decrease the amount of light allowed to pass through and can cause draughts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they may not be able support the weight of replacement units and would require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only take a chunk out of your budget, they also put unnecessary strain on the environment, something we all want to reduce our impact of. Windows that leak are a major reason for high energy bills. They don't just let heat escape from your home and create draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your house. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows will aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.

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

If your double glazing is leaking, it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign the seal is broken and water is leaking between the glass panes. Double glazing will prevent moisture from entering your house, stop heat from escaping and keep your home warm.

You can save energy, improve the look of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. This will also add value to your home, making it more attractive to prospective buyers if you decide to sell in the near future. With Category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save up to PS115 per year in heating costs, which will swiftly pay for the cost of the windows you have purchased.

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 blurred, it is important to repair it as soon as possible as it is an issue of safety. Additionally, it could be costing you more money in energy bills than necessary because of the loss of insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass replacement for window unit). Gas within the glass, typically argon, or krypton, aids in insulation. If the seal fails the gas leaks, causing your window to fog.

A premature seal failure is a clear indicator of a defective product so be sure to check your warranty for coverage. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, scaled according to the age of your windows glass replacement, and this might be an option to consider.

Other indications that you may need to replace your uPVC windows are: