9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide variety of options to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages, including noise reduction, UV protection and property security with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should 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 a common phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is performing exactly as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the glass's temperature dropping below the dew point of the air surrounding it, causing water vapour to be drawn from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This is aggravated by the presence of plants in your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing within your double glazing, this is a much more serious issue. It is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken, allowing warm air from your home to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double-glazed windows, and if untreated, will cause a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double glazing when this kind of condensation is discovered will decrease the likelihood that it will worsen and cost you more in the end. The replacement double Glazing windows of your double-glazed windows can also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy-efficient windows which will make your home more comfortable and reducing utility bills even further.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing has many benefits that include the reduction of energy costs and noise. However, just like any other product double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it's crucial to be aware of signs that they are reaching the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation. This is because of the different temperature between the two panes. If you notice it, it could be a sign that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal fails, cold air can enter your home. This is not just a waste of energy, but also results in damp and mould. Both of these are costly to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould can be harmful to health as they can create allergens and irritants that could impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts around windows are another indication that sealants have begun to wear. This allows outside noise to enter your home, which can be a distraction. This can impact your ability to work from home, or how peaceful your home can feel.

In the end, if windows do not open or close smoothly, it's a sign that they need to be replaced. This could be a security issue if the windows aren't able 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 currently have and provide recommendations on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts passing through your windows, it's usually a sign that seals within your double glazing have burst. Sealants are used to keep the panes of glass together and assist in insulating, however this can often be damaged due to changes in weather conditions or simply aging. In the end cold air enters your home, while warm air is emitted creating draughts, which leads to lower energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be occurring is that the frame of your window has become misshapen and is not sealing correctly. This means that moisture can get trapped in the frame, which will also result in rotting and draughts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double-glazed windows as soon as you can.

A window that is misty is a clear sign that the sealed unit has developed a leak or the gas between the panes has escaped. This is a serious issue and you must replace it immediately in order to stop water from entering your home. It also prevents 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.

Chips and cracks in your double-glazed windows aren't always a sign that they need replacing, but they can have a negative effect on the overall performance. While they allow cold air to get in it, they could decrease the amount of light allowed to pass through and can cause drafts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they might not be strong enough to support the weight of replacement window seals units and will require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant cost for a household and that's why it is essential to keep them as low as you can. High energy bills are not only costly however they also place unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Leaky windows are the main reason for high energy costs. They not only let heat escape from your home and create drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your house. Energy efficient windows can help you save money as well as reduce your energy costs.

If you notice condensation forming between the panes of your double glazing, it's a clear indication that they require replacement. This is an indication of a damaged seal, which indicates that air is leaking into and out of the home. The insulation may not be functioning properly.

Another sign that your double glazing requires replacing is if they are misting up. This is a clear indication that the seal has broken and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will stop moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

By having your double glazed replacement windows-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy-efficient window, you can conserve heat, reduce your energy use and enhance the appearance of your home. It will also increase the value of your property which makes it more appealing to prospective buyers if you decide to sell it in the near future. With Category B rated double glazing you can anticipate saving up to PS115 per year in heating costs, which can quickly pay for the cost of the windows you have purchased.

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 is becoming misty, it's important to fix it as quickly as possible as it is a safety concern. It may also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.

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

Check your warranty to see whether it covers premature seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty that is based on the time of the window. This is something to consider.

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