Replacing Double Glazed Windows

There are a myriad of options to choose from, whether you prefer uPVC aluminum casements or sash. They can be tailored to your personal preferences and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing provides numerous benefits such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security for your home 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.

However, 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. The condensation outside your windows during the morning is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the surrounding air. This causes water vapour from 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 as well as 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, allowing warm air from your house to enter while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed it will have a significant impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is noticed will reduce the chance that it will worsen, saving 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 lower your energy bills.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing offers many advantages, such as the reduction of energy costs and noise. However, as with any other item, double glazed windows have a lifespan and it's important to be aware of signs that they are reaching the limit of their utility.

Visible condensation is among the most evident indicators. This is because of the different temperatures between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be a sign that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal is damaged, cold air can enter your home. This not only wastes electricity but also leads to damp and mould. Both are costly to repair. Both mould and damp can be detrimental to your health as they can cause allergies and irritations that could impact the wellbeing of your family.

Draughts in your windows are another sign that the sealants are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a big distraction, especially in the case of an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can impact your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.

If the windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner it's an indication that they should be changed. It can be a safety concern if your windows do not open in an emergency situation, such as an incident involving fire in your home. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A professional window installer will be able evaluate the condition of the windows you have and provide recommendations regarding the best option.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts entering your windows, it is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have burst. Sealant is used to encase the glass panes in place and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather conditions or simply aging. As a result, cold air comes into your home, and warm air escapes which can cause draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and is not sealed properly could cause drafts. The moisture can also get caught inside the window frame, leading to drafts over time. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window replacement that has a misty appearance indicates that the sealed unit has let out or the 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 leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are under warranty, contact the company, and they'll be able to fix windows for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing aren't always a signal of needing to be replaced however they can affect the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to pass through and out, they can also limit the amount of light that is let in and cause drafts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they may not be able to support the weight of replacement double glazing window units and would require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant household expense and it's crucial to keep them as low as possible. High energy bills are not only costly however they also place unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to decrease this. Leaky windows are a major cause of high energy bills. They don't just let heat escape from your home and create draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your house. Replacing double glazing with windows that are energy efficient will aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation between double-glazed panes, it's an indication that your windows must be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means air is leaking into and out of the house. The insulation may not be working properly.

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

By having your double glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy-efficient window, you can conserve heat, lower your energy use and enhance the appearance of your home. It will also increase the value of your home, making it more appealing to buyers in the event that you decide to sell. You will save PS115 in heating expenses each year by using double glazing that is classified as B. This will pay for the cost of 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 repair it as soon as you can, as it's a safety concern. It could also result in 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). The gas inside the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps with insulation, and when the seal fails this gas escapes, causing the window to fog up.

Check your warranty to see whether it covers premature seal failure. In certain cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty that is based on the age of your windows, so this may be a viable option.

Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows include: