10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminum casements, there's a vast selection of options to suit the aesthetic of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing has many advantages that include noise reduction, UV protection and property security with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can you do if your double glazed 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.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is normal and indicates that your double glazing system is working exactly as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of air surrounding it, causing water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This is aggravated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If you notice condensation in your double glazing, it could be an issue that is more serious. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from your home to enter while the gas that insulates it escapes. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed it will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double Glazing windows double glazing when this kind of condensation is discovered will decrease the likelihood that it will worsen and cost you more in the end. 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. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits such as noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. Like any product double-glazed windows have a life span. It is essential to recognize the signs when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious indicators is the visible condensation that is visible. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you see this it's a good indicator that the window seal has failed and it's time for the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails, then cold air will be 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 detrimental to your health as they can cause allergies and irritations that could affect the health of your family.

Draughts around windows are another sign that the sealants have started to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home and be a big distraction, especially in the case of a busy road or noisy neighbours. This can also affect any work you plan to work from home, or simply how relaxing your home can be.

If windows aren't opening and close smoothly it is also a sign that they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open when required in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter can assess the condition of your existing windows and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts from your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to secure the panes of glass together and assist in insulating, however this is often damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. In the result cold air is able to enter your home, while warm air escapes which can cause draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

A window replacement frame that is shaped incorrectly and not sealing properly could cause draughts. This means that moisture could get trapped inside the frame, which will also result in rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing as soon as possible.

A misted double-glazed window is an indication that the sealed unit has let out or gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious problem and you should replace it immediately in order to stop water from getting into your property. It will also stop 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-glazed windows aren't always a sign they require replacement windows panes however, they can have a negative effect on the overall performance. They can also reduce the amount light that passes through, which can cause draughts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they might not be strong enough to support the weight of replacement window locks units, which will require new frames for windows.

4. Higher Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major cost for a household and it's crucial 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 pressure on the environment - something that we all want to reduce our impact of. Leaky windows are the main cause of high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home and create drafts that require you to use more energy to heat your house. Energy efficient windows can help you save money as well as reduce the cost of energy.

If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it's an indication that your windows must be replaced. It's a sign the seal has broken and air is entering and out of your house and that the insulation is not functioning as it should.

If your double glazing is leaking, it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign that the seal is broken and water is leaking between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will prevent moisture from getting into your home, prevent heat from 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. This will also boost 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 as much as PS115 per year in heating costs, which will quickly cover 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.

It is important to have your double glazing fixed as soon possible in the event that the glass replacement window has turned cloudy. This could be a safety issue. Additionally, it could be costing you more money in energy bills than you need to because of the loss of insulation.

The misty windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas within the glass, typically argon, or krypton, aids in insulation. When the seal fails, this gas leaks, causing your window to fog.

Check your warranty to determine whether it covers seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee, based on the time of the window screen replacement. This may be something to consider.

Other indicators that your uPVC window requires to be replaced include: