Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a myriad of options to choose from, whether you want uPVC sash or aluminium casements. They can be tailored to your personal preferences and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits including noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security of your property with 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 glazed replacement windows glazing has failed and it needs replacing as soon as possible.

In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is performing just as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the cold glass temperature dropping below the dew point of air surrounding it, causing water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass, which then condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that generate excessive moisture in your home as well as by high levels humidity.

If condensation forms within your double glazing, it is a far more serious problem and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken, allowing warm air from your house to find its way in while insulating gas is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing and if left untreated will cause a significant impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing when this kind of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will worsen, saving you money in the end. Replacement of your double glazing could also be a great opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows that will make your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing provides a number of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. However, just like any other product double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it is important to be aware of signs that they are reaching the point of no return.

Visible condensation is among the most obvious indicators. This is caused by the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you observe this it's a good indicator that the seal on the window has failed, and it's time for the windows replaced.

If the window replacement companies seal is not working, then cold air can be allowed to enter your home which does more than just waste energy but can also cause damp and mould both of which are expensive to fix. Additionally, both damp and mould can be harmful to health since they can cause allergens and irritants that could impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts are another indication of sealants beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home and be a major distraction, especially when you live near a busy road or noisy neighbors. This can affect the work you want to work from home, or how peaceful your home is.

If the windows aren't opening and closing smoothly, it's also an indication that they require to be replaced. It could be a security issue if your windows do not open in a situation of emergency, such as a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able assess the condition of the windows you currently have and provide recommendations on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts entering your windows, it's usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have blown. Sealants are used to hold the glass panes together and help with insulation, but this is often damaged due to changes in weather or by simply ageing. This allows cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, which can cause the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts may be causing the problem is that the frame of your window is bent and not sealing correctly. As a result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which could also result in rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and you should replace your double glazing as soon as you can.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious issue and needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from entering your property, stopping heat from escaping and decreasing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are under warranty, contact the company and they should be able to replace windows for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing aren't always a sign of needing replacement however they can affect the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that flows through, which can cause drafts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement double glazing Windows units, which would require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not only expensive, but they also put unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to decrease this. One of the biggest reasons for rising energy costs is leaking windows, which allow heat to escape your home, but can also create drafts that require you to use more energy to heat your home. Energy efficient windows can help you save money as well as reduce the cost of energy.

If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it is an indication that your windows need to be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means that air is leaking out of the house. Insulation is also not working properly.

If your double glazing is leaking it's time to replace them. This indicates that the seal has been damaged and water is trapped between the glass panes. Double glazing will prevent the entry of moisture into your home and stop heat from leaving and keep your home warm.

You can reduce energy usage and enhance the appearance of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This can also increase the value of your property, making it more attractive for potential 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 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 turned cloudy, you must get this repaired as soon as you can as it's an issue of safety. It may also cost you more in energy bills due to the loss of insulation.

Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas contained within the glass - usually Krypton or argon - aids in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas escapes, causing the window to fog.

A premature seal failure is a clear sign of a problem with the product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, scaled according to the age of your windows, so this may be a viable option.

Other indications that your uPVC window should be replaced include: