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

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide range of options available to match the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing offers a host of benefits like noise reduction, UV-ray protection and security of your property with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can you do if 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 replacements 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 exactly as it is supposed to. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the glass's temperature dropping below the dew point of the surrounding air, causing water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This can be exacerbated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture as well as high humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing inside your double-glazed unit, this is a more serious issue and an indication that the seal between the two glass panes is broken which allows warm air from your home to get in while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double glazing, and if untreated, will cause a significant impact on your energy bill.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows as soon as you notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the possibility that the issue gets worse, saving your money in the long run. Replacing your double glazing can also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy-efficient windows that will make your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing provides a number of benefits such as noise insulation and saving on energy costs. However, as with any other type of window, double-glazed windows have a life span and it's crucial to be aware of the indicators that they're reaching the limit of their utility.

One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation. This is due to the difference in temperatures between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be an indication that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal fails then cold air is able to enter your home, which not only wastes energy but can also cause damp and mould, both of which cost of replacement windows uk a lot to repair. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, as they can cause allergies and irritations that could affect the wellbeing of your family.

Draughts are another sign of sealants beginning to wear. This lets outside noises into your home, which could be a distraction. This can also affect the work you want to do at home or how peaceful your home can be.

If windows no longer open and close smoothly, it's an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window installer will be able to evaluate the condition of the windows you currently have and make recommendations on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts out of your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to encase the glass panes and provide insulation. However, it could be damaged by weather changes or simply aging. This allows cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing draughts and a reduction in energy efficiency.

A window frame that is shaped incorrectly and not sealing properly could also lead to draughts. Moisture can also get trapped in the window frame, causing drafts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double glazing as soon as you can.

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

Cracks and chips in your double glazing aren't always a sign they require replacement however, they can have a negative effect on their overall performance. As well as allowing cold air to enter it, they could reduce the amount of light let in and cause draughts. In addition If there are significant cracks or chips on your windows, it is likely that they won't be able to withstand the weight of a replacement double Glazing windows unit, which will require a new window frame.

4. More Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. High energy bills not only take a chunk out of your budget, they also put unnecessary stress on the environment, something we all wish to reduce our impact of. One of the most significant causes of skyrocketing energy bills is the leaky windows that let heat escape your home, but can also create drafts that require you to utilize more energy to heat your property. Energy efficient windows can help you save money and reduce your energy bills.

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing, it's a clear indication that they need to be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means air is leaking in and out of the home. Insulation is also not working properly.

Another sign that your double glazing is in need of replacement is if they're misting up. This is a sign that the seal has been damaged and water is leaking between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will prevent moisture from entering your home, stop heat leaving and help keep your house warm.

You can reduce energy usage, improve the look of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. This will also add value to your property which makes it more appealing to potential buyers should you decide to sell in the near future. You can expect to save PS115 in heating bills each year by using 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.

If the glass in your double glazing has turned cloudy, you must fix it as quickly as possible as it is an immediate safety risk. It may also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas inside the glass, usually argon, or krypton, helps with insulation. If the seal fails, this gas leaks and causes your window to fog.

Premature seal failure is a clear indicator of a defective product so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, based on the time of the window. This is something you should consider.

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