Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a variety of alternatives to choose from, whether you want uPVC cases or sash made of aluminium. They can be adapted to your personal preferences and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a host of benefits including noise reduction, UV-ray protection and property security from 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 glazing has failed and it needs replacing as soon as possible.

However, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal event and indicates that the double glazing unit is operating as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the glass's temperature dropping below the dew point of the surrounding air, which causes water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass, where it condenses. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If condensation appears in your double glazing, this is an even more serious issue. It is an indication that the 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 severe damage to your double glazing, and if untreated, will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double glazing as soon as you notice this type of condensation can dramatically reduce the chance that the issue will get worse, Glass Window replacement thereby saving you money in the long term. Replacing your double glazing can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy-efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing energy bills further.

2. Wear and tear

Double glazing provides a number of advantages, including noise insulation and saving on energy costs. But, like every other type of window, double-glazed windows have a life span and it's crucial to be aware of signs that they are reaching the limit of their utility.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. It is caused by the temperature difference between the two panes of glass and if you notice this it's a good indicator that the window seal has failed, and it's time for the windows replaced.

If the window seal is damaged the cold air can get into your home. This is not only a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mold. Both of these are costly to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould are detrimental to health since they can cause allergens and irritants which can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another sign of sealants beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to be heard in your home, which can be a major distracting factor, especially when you live near the road that is busy or has noisy neighbours. This could affect your ability to work from home or how peaceful your home feels.

If windows do not open or close smoothly, it's an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if the windows fail to open when required in an emergency such as an emergency fire, and should not be overlooked. A professional window installer will be able evaluate the condition of the windows you currently have and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts entering your windows, it's usually a sign that seals in your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to secure the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but it can often be damaged by weather changes or simply ageing. As a result cold air enters your home, and warm air is emitted which can cause draughts and lower energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be causing the problem is that the frame of your window has become misshapen and is not sealing properly. This means that moisture could get trapped inside the frame, which can also result in rotting and draughts as time passes. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing as quickly as possible.

A double-glazed window that is misty is an indication that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious issue and you must replace it immediately in order to stop water from entering your property. It will also stop the heat from leaving and reduce the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still under guarantee, check with the company and they will be able to replace windows for you.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a sign of needing to be replaced, but they may affect the overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that flows through, which can cause draughts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be able support the weight of replacement window handle units that will require new window frames.

4. More Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your the cost of energy as low as you can. High energy bills not only cost a lot of your budget, they also put unnecessary stress on the environment - something we all wish to reduce our impact of. One of the most significant causes of skyrocketing energy bills is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape your home, but can also create drafts that require you to use more energy to heat your home. Replacing double glazing with windows that are energy efficient will aid in reducing energy costs and help you save money year after year.

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing it is a clear indication that they require replacement. This is an indication of a damaged seal, which means that air is leaking in and out of the home. The insulation may not be working properly.

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

You can cut down on energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. It will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers should you decide to sell. With Category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save as much as PS115 per year on heating costs, which can quickly 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 become cloudy, you must get this repaired as soon as you can as it's an immediate safety risk. It could also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas in the Glass Window Replacement - usually argon or krypton - helps in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails, this gas leaks out, causing the window to become fogged.

Premature seal failure is a clear sign of a problem with the product, so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. Certain manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee in accordance with the time of the window. This may be something worth considering.

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