9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast selection of options to suit the aesthetic of your home as well as your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing offers a variety of advantages, including noise reduction, UV protection and property security through multipoint locking mechanisms.

However, what can you do if your double-glazed windows show signs of wear and tear?

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 indicates that the double glazing unit is working exactly as it is supposed to. The condensation outside your windows in mornings is due to the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of 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 produce excess moisture in your home and also by high levels of humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, this is a more serious problem and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken which allows warm air from your home to enter while insulating gas is evaporating. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing and if left untreated will result in a significant increase in your energy bills.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows as soon as you notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the chance that the issue gets worse, saving your money in the long run. It is also a great 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. Wear and tear

Double glazing can provide many benefits that include reducing energy bills and reducing noise. But, like every other type of window, double-glazed windows have a lifespan and it is important to be aware of the indicators that they're reaching the point of no return.

Condensation visible is one of the most evident indicators. It is caused by the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you notice this it's a good indicator that the window seal has failed, and it's time to get the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails then cold air could enter your home. This is not only a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mold. Both of them are costly to fix. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, as they can cause allergens and irritations that could impact the health of your family.

Draughts around windows are another sign that the sealants are beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to be heard in your home, which can be a big distraction, particularly in the case of a busy road or noisy neighbors. This could affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.

If windows no longer open and close smoothly, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. This could be a safety issue if the windows aren't able to open when required in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter can evaluate the condition of your current windows and offer suggestions on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed drafts entering your windows, it's typically a sign that the seals inside your double glazing window replacement glazing have failed. Sealant is used to secure the glass replacement for window panes and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. This allows cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly could also cause drafts. This means that moisture can get trapped in the frame, which can also cause draughts and rotting as time passes. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing as soon as you can.

A misted double-glazed window indicates that the sealed unit has leaking or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and you must replace it immediately in order to prevent water from entering your home. It will also stop the heat from leaving and decrease the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a signal of needing Replacement Double Glazing Window however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount light that passes through, leading to drafts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement glass for a window units, which will require new frames for windows.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your the cost of energy as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not just expensive however they also place unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to reduce this. One of the main causes of rising energy bills is leaking windows, which not only allow heat to escape your home but also cause draughts that require you to utilize more energy to heat your property. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows can reduce your energy bills and will save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation forming between the panes of your double glazing, it is a clear indication that they need replacing. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means that air is leaking in and out of the house. The insulation may not be working properly.

If your double glazing is getting misty, it's time to replace them. This is a clear indication that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. The replacement window pane of your double glazing will stop moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from escape and help keep your home warm.

You can cut down on energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home, and conserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. This will also add value to your home and make it more appealing to prospective buyers if you decide to sell it in the future. You are likely to save PS115 in heating bills per year with double glazing rated category B. This will pay for 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.

It is crucial to get your double glazing repaired immediately when the glass is becoming misty. This could be a security issue. It could also result in more in energy costs due to the loss in insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misty windows. The gas inside the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas escapes, causing the window to become fogged.

Examine your warranty to see whether 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 indications that you may need to replace your uPVC windows are: