Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a variety of options to choose from, whether you're looking for uPVC sash or aluminium casements. They can be tailored to your aesthetic needs and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security for your home with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should 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 event and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of surrounding air, causing water vapour to be drawn up from the air and into the cold glass, which then condenses. This can be made worse by plants that produce excess moisture in your home and also by high levels of humidity.

If condensation forms within your double glazing, it is a far more serious issue. It is it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken which allows warm air from your house to find its way in while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double glazing and if not addressed, could have a significant impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing when this kind of condensation is noticed will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse, saving you money in the end. 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 Replacement double glazing windows will lower your utility costs.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. Like all other products double-glazed windows have a life span. It is crucial to be aware of the signs when they are at the end of their usefulness.

Visible condensation is among the most evident indicators. It is caused by the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you see this it's a good indicator that the seal on the window has failed and it's time to have the windows replaced.

If the window seal is not working, then cold air is able to enter your home. This not only wastes energy but can also lead to damp and mould both of which are expensive to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould are detrimental to health as they can create allergens and irritants which 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 impact your ability to work from home or how peaceful your home can feel.

Finally, if the windows do not open or close easily, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open when required in an emergency such as a fire, and should not be overlooked. A professional window installer can examine the condition of the windows you have and offer suggestions on the best course.

3. Draughts

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

A window frame that is not properly shaped and is not sealed properly could also cause draughts. Moisture can also get trapped inside the window frame, creating the draughts to increase as time passes. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing as soon as possible.

A window that is misty is a clear indication that your sealed unit has sprung an air leak or the gas between the panes has been escaping. This is a serious problem and you will need to replace it immediately in order to stop water from getting into your property. It also stops the heat from leaving and decrease the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing replacement window glass, but they may affect the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in, they can decrease the amount of light let in and replacement double glazing windows cause drafts. Additionally If there are significant cracks or chips in your windows, it's unlikely that they'll be able to withstand the weight of a replacement double glazing windows unit which would require an entirely new window frame.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only consume a significant portion of your budget, they also put unnecessary stress on the environment - something we all want to be able to less of. One of the main reasons for rising energy costs is the leaky windows that allow heat to escape your home, but can also cause draughts that require you to utilize more energy to heat your property. Installing double glazing using windows that are energy efficient will aid in reducing energy costs and help you save money year after year.

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

If your double glazing is misting then it's time to replace them. This is a clear indication that the seal has failed and water is accumulating between the panes of glass. Double glazing will stop moisture from entering your house and stop heat from leaving and keep your home warm.

If you have your double-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy efficient window, you will be able to conserve heat, reduce your energy usage and improve the appearance of your home. This will also boost the value of your home which will make it more appealing to buyers in the event that you decide to sell. You are likely to save PS115 in heating costs per year with double glazing that is classified as B. This will quickly pay for 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 crucial to get your double glazing fixed as soon possible when the glass is becoming blurred. This could be a safety concern. In addition, it may be costing you more money in energy bills than necessary because of the loss of insulation.

The air humidity between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause windows to become misty. The gas in the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas leaks out, causing the window to fog up.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear sign of a defective product so be sure to check your warranty for coverage. In some instances, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty scaled according to the age of your windows, so this may be an option to consider.

Other signs that your uPVC window needs to be replaced include: