Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide selection of options to match the style of your property and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing has many benefits, including noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security through multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can 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 glazing has failed and it needs replacing as soon as possible.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is functioning as it should. The condensation outside your windows in the morning is caused by the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of surrounding air. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the cold window where it condenses. This can be made worse by plants that create excess moisture in your home and by high levels of humidity.

If condensation appears in your double glazing, this is an even more serious issue. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from your home to get in while the insulating gas escapes. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and, if left untreated will greatly impact the cost of energy.

Having replacement glass for window double glazing installed as soon as you detect this kind of condensation can dramatically reduce the possibility that the issue becomes worse, and save you money in the long run. The replacement of your double-glazed windows can also be a great opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated windows, making your home more comfortable as well as reducing your energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing has many benefits, such as the reduction of energy costs and noise. However, as with any other item, double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it's crucial to be aware of the signs that they are reaching the limit of their utility.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation that is visible. This is due to the temperature difference between the two panes of glass and if you see this it's a good indicator that the seal on the window handles replacement has failed and it's time to get the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails, then cold air will be able to enter your home. This is not just a waste of energy, but can also lead to damp and mould both of which are expensive to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould are detrimental to health because they can produce allergens and irritants that can affect your family's health.

Draughts are a sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows outside noise to enter your home, which can be distracting. This could also impact any work you plan to do from home or just how relaxing your home can be.

In the end, if windows do not open or close easily, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open in an emergency such as a fire and should not be overlooked. A professional window installer can examine the condition of the windows you have and make recommendations on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming from your windows, it is likely that the seals in your double glazing have burst. Sealants are used to keep the glass panes together and help with insulation, but it can be damaged by changes in weather or by simply aging. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly can cause draughts. Moisture can also get trapped in the window frame, leading to draughts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double glazing as quickly as possible.

A double-glazed window that is misty indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious problem and needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from entering your home, preventing heat from leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing aren't always a sign of needing replacement however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that flows through, leading to draughts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement Double glazing window units, which would require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. The high cost of energy is not just expensive but also put an unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to reduce this. One of the most significant causes of rising energy bills is the leaky windows that not only allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that require you to utilize more energy to heat your property. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows will help to reduce energy costs and help you save 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, which means that air is leaking in and out of your home, and that the insulation isn't working as it should.

If your double glazing is getting misty it's time to replace the glass. This is a clear indication that the seal has broken and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. Double glazing can stop water from entering your home and will stop heat from escape and keep your home warm.

You can save energy and enhance the appearance of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This will also add value to your home and make it more appealing to prospective buyers if you decide to sell in the future. You can expect to save PS115 in heating costs each year by using 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 important to have your double glazing repaired immediately in the event that the glass has turned cloudy. This can be a safety issue. It could also cost you more in energy bills due to the loss in insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas inside the glass, usually Krypton or argon helps in insulating. If the seal fails this gas leaks out which causes the window to become cloudy.

Check your warranty to determine whether it covers seal failure. In some cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this may be a viable option.

Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows are: