9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's a vast range of options available to fit the style of your property and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits like noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security for your home with multipoint locking mechanisms.
However, what can you do if your double glazing is showing 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 your windows is a common occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning just as it should. Condensation outside your windows in the morning is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes water vapour from 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 and by high humidity.
If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, this is a much more serious issue. It is it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken and allows warm air from your house to enter while insulating gas is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing replacement window glazing and if untreated, will result in a significant increase in the cost of energy.
Installing replacement windows glass double-glazed windows when you first notice this type of condensation can drastically decrease the possibility that the issue becomes worse, and save you money in the long term. It's also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy efficient A-rated windows. This will improve the comfort of your home, and reduce your utility costs.
2. Wear and tear
Double glazing provides a number of benefits, including noise insulation and saving on energy bills. Like all products, double glazed window have a life expectancy. It is important to be aware of the signs when they are nearing the end of their lifespan.
Visible condensation is among the most obvious indicators. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you notice this, it's an indication that the window seal 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. Both mould and damp can be detrimental to your health because they can trigger allergens and irritations that can affect the health of your family.
Draughts are another indication of sealants that have begun to wear. This lets outside noise be heard in your home, which can be a huge distraction, particularly when you live near the road that is busy or has noisy neighbours. This can affect any work you might try to work from home, or simply how relaxing your home is.
If windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also an indication that they should be changed. It can be a safety issue if the windows do not open in a situation of emergency like the event of a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able evaluate the condition of the windows you currently have and offer suggestions on the best course.
3. Draughts
If you are experiencing draughts out of your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have failed. Sealant is used to secure the glass panes in place and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. This can cause 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 may be happening is because the frame of your window has become misshapen and is not sealing correctly. As a result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which could also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as you can.
A misted double glazed window is a clear indication that the sealed unit has developed a leak or the gas between the panes has escaped. This is a serious problem and you will need to replace it right away to stop water from getting into your property. It also stops the heat from leaving and decrease the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.
Chips and cracks in your double glazing aren't necessarily a sign that they require replacement however they could have a negative impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount light that passes through, causing draughts. Additionally If there are significant cracks or chips in your windows, it is unlikely that they'll be able to bear the weight of a replacement double Glazing window unit, which would require a new window frame.
4. More Utility Bills
Energy costs are a significant cost for a household and that's why it's important to keep them as low as you can. The high cost of energy doesn't just cost a lot of your budget, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment, something we all want to reduce our impact of. One of the biggest causes of skyrocketing energy bills is the leaky windows that let heat escape your home but also create drafts that require you to make use of more energy to heat your home. Replacing double glazing with windows that are energy efficient will help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.
If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it is a clear indication that they need to be replaced. It's a sign that the seal has broken and air is getting in and out of your house and that the insulation isn't working as it should.
Another sign that your double glazing needs replacement glass for windows is if they're misting up. This indicates that the seal is damaged and that water is trapped between the glass panes. Double glazing will stop moisture from entering your house, stop heat from escaping and keep your home warm.
You can cut down on energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. This will also increase the value of your home which will make 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 on heating costs, which will quickly cover the cost of the windows you have purchased.
5. Faulty Windows
If you have a double glazed window glass replacements near me 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 has turned cloudy, you must fix it as quickly as you can, as it's an immediate safety risk. It could also result in more in energy costs due to the loss in insulation.
Moisture in the air between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause windows to become misty. The gas contained within the glass - usually argon or krypton - assists with insulation, and when the seal fails, this gas leaks out, which causes the window to become fogged.
Check your warranty to see whether it covers premature seal failure. In some instances manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, which is based on the age of your windows, so this may be an option to consider.
Other indications that your uPVC window requires to be replaced include: