Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a variety of choices to pick from, whether you want uPVC cases or sash made of aluminium. They can be customized to meet your aesthetic requirements and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages that include noise reduction and UV protection, as well as property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

But, what do you do when your double glazing shows signs of wear and wear and

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 the windows is normal and is a sign that your double glazing unit is working just as it is supposed to. The condensation that forms outside your windows in the morning is due to the temperature of the cold glass dropping 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 exacerbated by plants that generate excessive moisture in your home as well as by high levels humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing in your double glazing, this is an issue that is more serious. It's a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from inside your home to pass through while the gas that insulates it escapes. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and if it is not addressed it will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double glazing immediately after this type of condensation is noticed will reduce the chance that it will worsen, saving you money in the end. 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 costs.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits such as noise insulation and savings on energy bills. Like all other products double-glazed windows have a life span. It is crucial to know the signs of when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. This is caused by the temperature difference between the two panes of glass and if you see this it's a good indicator that the window seal has failed, and it's time for 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 these are costly to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to your health as they can create allergens and irritants that can affect your family's health.

Draughts around your windows are another sign that the sealants are beginning to wear. This allows outside noise to enter your home, which can be distracting. This can impact your ability to work from home, or how peaceful your home can feel.

In the end, if windows no longer open and close smoothly it is also an indication that they require to be replaced. It could be a security issue if your windows aren't opening in a situation of emergency, such as an incident involving fire in your home. This is something you should not ignore. A qualified window fitter can evaluate the condition of your current windows and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts passing through your windows, it's usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have failed. Sealant is used to hold the glass panes and provide insulation. However, fitter this can be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. As a result, cold air comes into your home, while warm air escapes which can cause draughts and lower energy efficiency.

A window frame that is shaped incorrectly and not sealing properly could also cause draughts. The moisture can also get caught inside the window frame, causing drafts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as you can.

A double-glazed window that is misty is an indication that the sealed unit has leaking or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and needs to be repaired immediately to prevent water entering your home, preventing heat from escaping 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 are not always a sign of needing replacement however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in and out, they can also decrease the amount of light that is let in and cause drafts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they may not be strong enough to support the weight of replacement units that will require new window frames.

4. More Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not only costly however they also place unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Leaky windows are the main reason for high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home, but they also create draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your house. Energy efficient windows can help you save money as well as reduce your energy costs.

If you notice condensation forming 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 into and out of the house. Insulation is also not functioning properly.

Another indication that your double glazing needs replacing is if they are misting up. This indicates that the seal is damaged and water is leaking between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will prevent moisture from getting into your home, prevent heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

You can reduce energy usage and enhance the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. This will also increase the value of your home which will make it more appealing to buyers should you decide to sell. With category B rated double glazing, you can expect to save up to PS115 per year in heating costs, which will quickly 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 misty, it's important to fix it as quickly as possible as it is an immediate safety risk. In addition, it may be costing you more in energy bills than you need to because of 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 inside the glass - usually argon or krypton - assists in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails, this gas leaks out, which causes the window replacement companies to fog up.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear sign of a defective product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty in accordance with the age of the window. This could be something worth considering.

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