9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's an extensive variety of options to match the style of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing has many benefits that include noise reduction, UV protection and property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can 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 phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is operating as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows in the morning is caused by the temperature of the cold glass dropping below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the cold window, where it condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that generate excess 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 is an indication that the 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 can cause significant damage to the double glazing and, if left untreated, will significantly impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows as soon as you detect this kind of condensation will drastically reduce the chance that the issue becomes worse, and save you money in the long run. It is also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy efficient A-rated windows. This will improve the comfort of your home and lower your energy costs.

2. Wear and tear

Double glazing offers many advantages that include reducing energy bills and reducing noise. Like all other products double-glazed windows have a life expectancy. It is crucial to know the signs of when they are at the end of their lifespan.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. This is because of the different temperature between the two panes. If you notice it this could be an indication that the window seals have failed.

If the window sash replacement seal is damaged then cold air could enter your home. This not only wastes energy, but also results in damp and mould. Both of these are costly to repair. Furthermore, both damp and mould can be harmful to health since they can cause allergens and irritants which can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a big distracting factor, especially when you live near a busy road or noisy neighbors. This can affect the work you want to do from home or simply how relaxing your home can be.

If the windows aren't opening and closing smoothly, it's also a sign they need to be replaced. It could be a safety issue if your windows don't open in a crisis situation, such as an incident involving fire in your home. This is a sign that you should not ignore. A professional window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your current windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts from your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to hold the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but it 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.

Another reason why draughts could be causing the problem is that the frame of your window is distorted and not sealing correctly. In the result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which can also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious problem and it is important to have your double-glazing replaced as soon as you can to avoid any further problems.

A double-glazed window that is misty indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and you must replace it right away to stop water from getting into your home. It also prevents heat from escaping, and reduce the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are still under warranty, consult the company, and they'll be able to fix them for you.

Chips and cracks in your double glazing aren't always a sign they need replacing however, they could have a negative impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that goes through, leading to draughts. In addition, if there are deep cracks or chips on your windows, it is unlikely that they will be able to withstand the weight of a replacement double Glazing window unit which will require an entirely new window frame.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your the cost of energy as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only consume a significant portion of your budget, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment - something we all wish to reduce our impact of. Leaky windows are the main reason for high energy costs. They not only let heat escape from your home, but they also create drafts that require the use of additional energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can help to reduce 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 require replacement. It's a sign that the seal is broken and air is getting in and out of your house and that the insulation isn't working as it should.

If your double glazing is misting it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign the seal has been damaged and water is leaking between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will stop moisture from entering your home, stop heat escaping and help to keep your house warm.

If you have your double-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy efficient window you will be able to preserve the heat, cut down on energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. This will also increase the value of your home, making it more appealing to buyers in the event that 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 swiftly pay for the cost of 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 is becoming blurred, it is important to fix it as quickly as possible as it is an immediate safety risk. Additionally, it could be costing you more money in energy bills than you need to due to the loss of insulation.

Moisture in the air between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misted windows. The gas contained within the glass - usually argon or krypton - assists in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas leaks out, which causes the window to fog up.

A premature seal failure is a clear indication of a defective product therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. In some instances, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, that is based on the age of your windows, so this may be a viable option.

Other signs that your uPVC window should be replaced include: