Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a variety of options to choose from, whether you're looking for uPVC cases or sash made of aluminium. They can be customized to your personal preferences and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing offers a host of benefits such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security of your property with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should you do if your double glazing 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.

In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning just as it is supposed to. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the cold glass temperature dropping below the dew point of the air surrounding it, causing water vapour to be drawn from the air into the cold glass, where it condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that create excess moisture in your home as well as by high levels humidity.

If you notice condensation 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 inside your home to enter while the insulating gas escapes. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and if it is not addressed will greatly impact your energy bills.

Installing replacement window glass double glazing immediately you notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the chance that the issue gets worse, saving your money in the end. The replacement of your double-glazed windows can also be a great way to upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated windows that will make your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing can provide a variety of advantages, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. But, like every other product double glazed windows have a life span and it is important to be aware of the indicators that they're reaching the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you notice this, it's a sign that the seal on the window has failed and it's time to have the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails then cold air will be able to enter your home which does more than just waste energy but can also cause damp and mould, both of which cost a lot to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to health as they can create allergens and irritants that can impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts are a sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a major distracting factor, especially when you live near an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.

If windows aren't opening and closing smoothly it's an indication that they should be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows aren't able to open when required in an emergency such as a fire, misted and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter will be able to assess the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts coming through your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have burst. Sealants are used to secure the panes of glass together and assist in insulating, however this can often be damaged by changes in weather or by simply ageing. This causes 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 misshaped and is not sealed properly could also cause drafts. Moisture may also get trapped inside the window frame, leading to drafts over time. This is a serious issue and it is important to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as you can to avoid any further issues.

A misted double glazed window is a clear sign that the sealed unit has developed an open leak or that the gas between the panes is escaping. This is a serious problem and you must replace it right away to prevent water from entering your home. It also prevents the heat from leaving and will reduce the effectiveness 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 signal of needing to be replaced however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount light that passes through, leading to drafts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they might not be able to support the weight of replacement units and will require new frames for windows.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major expense for households and it's important to keep them as low as is possible. High energy bills not only consume a significant portion 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 leaking windows, which let heat escape from your home, but also create drafts that require you to make use of more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.

If you notice condensation between double-glazed panes, it is a sign that your windows must be replaced. It's a sign the seal is broken, which means that air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation isn't functioning as it should.

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

By having your double-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy-efficient window, you can conserve heat, lower your energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. This will also increase the value of your home, making it more appealing to potential buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With category B rated double glazing, you can anticipate saving 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.

It is important to have your double glazing fixed as soon as you can if the glass has become blurred. This could be a security issue. 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). Gas inside the glass, usually argon, or krypton, helps in insulating. If the seal fails the gas leaks and causes your window to become cloudy.

Check your warranty to see if it covers premature seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty in accordance with the time of the window. This could be something you should consider.

Other indicators that you should to replace your uPVC windows include: