9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Replacement Double Glazing Windows

Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want upvc window lock replacement sash windows or aluminium casements, there's an extensive variety of options to suit the aesthetic of your property and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing provides a host of benefits such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and property security from 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.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is a common phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is performing 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 the surrounding air, causing water vapour to be drawn from the air and into the cold glass, where it cools. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture as well as high humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing within your double glazing, this is a much more serious problem and it is a sign that the seal between the two glass panes is broken, allowing warm air from your home 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 bill.

Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is noticed will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and save you money in the end. It's also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy-efficient A-rated windows. This will make your home more comfortable, and reduce your utility bills.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing can provide many benefits including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. Like all products double glazed windows have a life span. It is crucial to know the signs of when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is the visible condensation. This is caused by the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you observe 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 fails then cold air is able to enter your home which not only wastes energy but can also lead to damp and mould and both are costly to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould are detrimental to health as they can create allergens and irritants which can impact on your family's wellbeing.

Draughts are another sign of sealants beginning to wear. This allows outside noise into your home, which could be distracting. This can also affect the work you want to do at home or simply how relaxing your home is.

Finally, if the windows aren't opening and close easily, it's an indication that they need to be replaced. It can be a safety issue if the windows don't open in a crisis situation, such as the event of a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window fitter can evaluate the condition of your current windows and give suggestions on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed drafts passing through your windows, it is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to secure the glass panes together and help with insulation, but this can be damaged by weather changes or simply aging. In the end cold air is able to enter your home, while warm air escapes, leading to draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts may be occurring is that the window's frame has become misshapen and is not sealing properly. The moisture can also get caught within the window frame, causing draughts as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double glazed windows replacement glazing as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance indicates that the sealed unit has leaked or gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious problem and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water entering your property, stopping heat from escaping and decreasing 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 necessarily a sign that they need replacing however, they could have a negative impact on the overall performance. They can also reduce the amount of light that flows through, causing drafts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they might not be strong enough to support the weight of replacement units and will require new frames for windows.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is essential to keep your energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high 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. Windows that leak are a major reason for high energy bills. They don't just let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause drafts that require you to use additional energy to heat your home. Energy efficient windows can help you save money and reduce your energy bills.

If you notice condensation between double-glazed panes, it is an indication that your windows must be replaced. It's a sign that the seal has failed and air is getting in and out of your home, and that the insulation isn't working as it should be.

If your double glazing is leaking it's time to replace the glass. This is a clear indicator that the seal has broken and water is accumulating between the glass panes. The Replacement double Glazing windows of your double glazing will stop moisture from entering your home, prevent heat from escape and help keep your house 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 consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. This will also boost the value of your home which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers should you decide to sell. You are likely to save PS115 in heating costs each year by using double glazing rated category B. This will 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 become blurred, it is important to get this repaired as soon as you can as it's an issue of safety. In addition, it may be costing you more in energy bills than necessary because of the loss of 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 Krypton or argon aids in insulation. If the seal fails the gas leaks which causes the window to become foggy.

A premature seal failure is a clear indication of a defective product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee, based on the age of the window. This may be something you should consider.

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