Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

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

However, what can you do when your double-glazed windows show 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.

In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is performing just as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows in mornings is caused by the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that generate excess moisture in your house as well as by high levels humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing inside your double glazing it is a far more serious issue and an indication that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken and allows warm air from your home to get in while insulating gas is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double-glazed windows, and if left untreated will cause a significant impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement glass for window double glazing when this kind of condensation is noticed will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and cost you more 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 will lower your utility costs.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing provides a number of benefits such as noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. Like all other products, double glazed window have a life span. It is crucial to be aware of the signs when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

Visible condensation is one of the most evident indicators. This is caused by the temperature difference between the two panes of glass and if you observe this, it's a sign that the window seal has failed, and it's time to have the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails then cold air is able to enter your home. This does more than just waste energy but can also lead to damp and mould both of which cost a lot to repair. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to health because they can produce allergens and irritants which can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another indication of sealants that have begun to wear. This lets outside noise be heard in your home, which can be a major distraction, especially in the case of the road that is busy or has noisy neighbors. This could also impact any work you plan to work from home, or how peaceful your home is.

If the windows are not opening and closing with ease It's also a sign they need to be replaced. It can be a safety concern if your windows do not open in an emergency situation like the event of a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able to examine the condition of the windows you have and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming out of your windows, it is likely that the seals in your double glazing have failed. A sealant is used to hold the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but this can be damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, leading to drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts could be causing the problem is that the window's frame has become misshapen and is not sealing correctly. Moisture may also get trapped inside the window frame, leading to drafts over time. This is a serious issue and it is essential to get your double glazing replaced as soon as you can to avoid further problems.

A window that is misty is a clear sign that the sealed unit has developed a leak or the gas between the panes has been escaping. This is a serious issue and you will need to replace it as soon as possible to prevent water from entering your home. It also prevents the heat from leaving and decrease the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Chips and cracks in your double glazing aren't necessarily a sign that they require replacement double glazing windows however they can have a negative effect on their overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that goes through, causing draughts. In addition when there are large cracks or chips on your windows, it is likely that they won't be able to bear the weight of a replacement double Glazing Window unit, which will require an entirely new window frame.

4. More Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only cost a lot of your budget, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment, something we all wish to reduce our impact of. Leaky windows are a major reason for high energy costs. They not only let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows will help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.

If you see condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it is a clear sign that they need to be replaced. This is a sign of a broken seal, which means that air is leaking into and out of the home. Insulation is also not working properly.

If your double glazing is misting then it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign that the seal has been damaged and that water is trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will stop water from getting into your home, stop heat escape and help keep your home warm.

You can save energy and improve the appearance of your home, and conserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. It will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive 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 on heating costs, which can quickly 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 immediately when the glass is becoming misty. This could be a safety issue. Additionally, it could be costing you more money in energy bills than necessary due to the loss of insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause windows to become misty. Gas inside the glass, mostly Krypton or argon helps in insulating. When the seal is damaged the gas leaks, causing your window to fog.

Premature seal failure is a clear indicator of a defective product so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, that is based on the age of your windows, and this might be a viable option.

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