The 9 Things Your Parents 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 wide range of options available to fit the style of your home and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing offers a variety of benefits such as noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security with 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 common occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning just as it is supposed to. Condensation outside your windows in mornings is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the air surrounding it. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window where it condenses. This is aggravated by the presence of plants in your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing inside your double glazing this is a much more serious issue. It is an indication that the seal between the two glass panes is broken which allows warm air from your house to enter while insulating gas is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double-glazed windows, and if untreated, will result in a significant increase in your energy bills.

Installing replacement double glazing immediately after this type of condensation is discovered will reduce the chance that it will get worse, saving you money in the end. Replacing your double glazing can also be a great opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated windows that will make your home more comfortable and reducing energy bills further.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing can provide many benefits, such as reducing energy bills and reducing noise. Like all products double glazed window replacement glazed windows have a life expectancy. It is crucial to recognize the signs when they are reaching the end of their lifespan.

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, it's a sign that the seal on the window is damaged 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 which is not just a waste of energy, but also can cause damp and mould and both cost a lot to repair. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, as they can cause allergies and irritations that could impact the health of your family.

Draughts are a sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This lets outside noise enter your home and be a big distraction, particularly in the case of an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbors. This can affect the work you want to do at home or how peaceful your home can be.

If windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also a sign they need to be replaced. It could be a safety concern if your windows don't open in an emergency situation, such as the event of a house fire. This is something you should not ignore. A professional window installer can assess the condition of the windows you have and provide recommendations on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts entering your windows, this is usually a sign that seals within your double glazing have blown. Sealants are used to keep the glass panes together and help in insulating, however this can often be damaged due to weather changes or simply aging. In the result, cold air comes into your home, while warm air escapes, leading to draughts and decreased energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts may be occurring is that the window's frame has become misshapen and is not sealing correctly. Moisture may also get trapped in the window replacement near me frame, creating drafts over time. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing as soon as possible.

A misted double-glazed window indicates that the sealed unit has leaking or the gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious problem and you should replace it right away to stop water from entering your property. It also stops heat from escaping, and will reduce the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are still covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a sign of needing replacement however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in, they can limit the amount of light that is allowed through and lead to draughts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement units, which will require new frames for windows.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant cost for a household, which is why it's important to keep them as low as possible. The high cost of energy doesn't just consume a significant portion of your budget, they also put unnecessary strain on the environment, something that we all want to reduce our impact of. One of the biggest reasons for rising energy costs is leaking windows, which allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that require you to make use of more energy to heat your property. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows will reduce your energy bills and help you save money year after year.

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it is a clear sign that they require replacement double glazing window. This is an indication of a damaged seal, which means that air is leaking into and out of the home. Insulation is also not working properly.

If your double glazing is leaking, it's time to replace the glass. This is a clear indication that the seal has broken and water is accumulating between the panes of glass. Double glazing can stop water from entering your home, stop heat from escaping and keep your home warm.

You can save energy 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 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 in heating costs, which will quickly 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 has turned misty, it's important to fix it as quickly as you can as it's an immediate safety risk. It could also cost you more in energy costs due to 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 with insulation, and when the seal fails, this gas leaks out, causing the window sash replacement to fog up.

A premature seal failure is a clear sign of a problem with the product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. In some cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this may be an option worth considering.

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