Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's a wide range of options available to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing offers a variety of advantages, including noise reduction and UV protection, as well as property security through multipoint locking mechanisms.

However, what can you do when your double glazing shows signs of wear and tear?

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 replacements; redirected here,'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 common event and indicates that the double glazing unit is operating as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs because of the glass's temperature dropping below the dew point of surrounding air, causing water vapour to be drawn up from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that produce excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, this is a much more serious issue. It is an indication that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken which allows warm air from your home to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing, and if left untreated will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Having replacement double glazing installed as soon as you detect this kind of condensation can dramatically reduce the likelihood that the problem becomes worse, and save you money in the long term. It's also an excellent opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy-efficient A-rated windows. This will improve the comfort of your home and lower your energy bills.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing has many benefits including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. Like all other products, window replacements double glazed window have a life expectancy. It is important to know the signs of when they are at the end of their lifespan.

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

If the window seal fails, then cold air is able to enter your home which is not just a waste of energy, but also can cause damp and mould, both of which are costly to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould are detrimental to health because they can produce allergens and irritants that can impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts are a sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows outside noise into your home, which could be a distraction. This can affect your ability to work from home, or how peaceful your home feels.

If windows aren't opening and closing smoothly It's also a sign they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if the windows aren't able to open when required in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window installer will be able examine the condition of the windows you have and make recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts coming through your windows, it is usually a sign that the seals in your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to secure the glass panes together and help with insulation, but this is often damaged due to changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to draughts and a reduction in energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly can also cause drafts. The moisture can also get caught within the window frame, leading to draughts over time. This is a serious issue and it is crucial to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as is possible to avoid further problems.

A double-glazed window replacement cost that has a mist is a clear sign your sealed unit has sprung an open leak or that the gas between the panes has been escaping. This is a serious problem and window replacements needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from getting into your home, preventing heat from leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing aren't always a signal of needing to be replaced however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. While they allow cold air to pass through it, they could reduce the amount of light let in and cause draughts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be able support the weight of replacement units and would require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. High energy bills are not just expensive, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Windows that leak are a major cause of high energy bills. They do not just let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause drafts that force the use of additional energy to heat your house. The replacement of double glazing with energy efficient windows will aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it's a sign that your windows need to be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means that air is leaking in and out of the house. The insulation is also not functioning properly.

Another sign that your double glazing is in need of replacement is if they're misting up. This is a sign that the seal is damaged and water is trapped between the glass panes. The replacement of your double glazing will stop moisture from getting into your home, prevent heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

You can cut down on energy consumption and improve the appearance of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. It will also increase the value of your home and make it more appealing for potential buyers if you decide to sell it in the future. With category B rated double glazing, you can anticipate saving 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 is becoming blurred, it is important to get this repaired as soon as possible as it is an immediate safety risk. It may also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas contained within the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps with insulation, and when the seal fails this gas leaks out, which causes the window screen replacement to fog up.

Examine your warranty to see whether it covers premature seal failure. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, that is based on the age of your windows, and this might be an option to consider.

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