Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a myriad of choices to pick from, whether you prefer uPVC sash or aluminium casements. They can be tailored to your personal preferences and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages that include noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security with multipoint locking mechanisms.

But, what do 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'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 indicates that the double glazing unit is working just as it is supposed to. The condensation outside your windows in the morning is caused by the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of air surrounding it. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This is aggravated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double glazing this is a more serious issue and an indication that the seal between the two glass panes is broken and allows warm air from your house to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and if it is not addressed will greatly impact your energy bills.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows immediately you notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the possibility that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the end. Replacing your double glazing can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated windows, making your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of advantages, including noise insulation and saving on energy bills. But, like every other item, double glazed windows have a lifespan and it is important to be aware of indications that they are nearing the limit of their utility.

One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation that is visible. It is caused by the difference in temperature between the two panes of glass and if you notice this, misted 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 is damaged, cold air can enter your home. This is not just a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mould. Both are costly to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to health as they can create allergens and irritants that could impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts around windows are another indication that sealants have begun to wear. This allows external noise to be heard in your home, which can be a major distracting factor, especially in the case of 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 aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also a sign they need to be changed. This could be a safety issue if the windows aren't able to open in the event of a fire and should not be overlooked. A professional window installer can evaluate the condition of the windows you currently have and provide recommendations on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming from your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to secure the glass panes and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather conditions or simply aging. In the end cold air enters your home and warm air is emitted, leading to draughts and decreased energy efficiency.

A window frame that is misshaped and not sealing properly can also cause draughts. The moisture can also get caught within the window handle replacement frame, leading to the draughts to increase as time passes. This is a serious problem and it is important to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as possible to avoid any further issues.

A misted double-glazed window indicates that the sealed unit has let out or gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and should be addressed immediately to stop water from entering your property, stopping heat from escaping and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are under warranty, consult the company and they will be able to fix them for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing to be replaced however they can affect the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to pass through it, they could decrease the amount of light that is let in and cause drafts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they might not be able support the weight of replacement units and will require new window replacement near me frames.

4. More Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant cost for a household and it's crucial to keep them as low as possible. High energy bills are not only expensive however they also place unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to decrease the impact of this. One of the biggest causes of skyrocketing energy bills is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape your home but also cause draughts that require you to make use of more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can aid in reducing energy costs and save you 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 has failed, which means that air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation is not functioning as it should.

If your double glazing is misting it's time to replace them. This is a sign the seal is damaged and that water is trapped between the glass panes. The replacement of your double glazing will stop water from entering your home, stop heat escaping and help to keep your home warm.

You can save energy and improve the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This will also boost the value of your home which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers in the event that you decide to sell. You can expect to save PS115 in heating bills each year by using double glazing that is classified as B. This will quickly pay for the cost of 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 fixed immediately if the glass has become cloudy. This can be a security issue. It could also result in more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

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

Check your warranty to see whether it covers seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, based on the age of the window. This may be something worth considering.

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