Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a wide range of options available to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with many benefits, such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security of your property 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 occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is because of the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of the surrounding air, which causes water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass window replacements, where it cools. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If you notice condensation in your double glazing, this is a more serious problem. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from inside your home to pass through while the insulating gas escapes. This can cause serious damage to your double-glazed windows, and if not addressed, could cause a significant impact on your energy bill.

Installing replacement windows and doors double glazing when you first notice this type of condensation will drastically reduce the chance that the issue gets worse, saving your money in the long run. 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. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing offers many advantages including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. But, like every other product double glazed windows have a lifespan and it is important to be aware of indications that they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious signs is the visible condensation. This is because of the different temperature 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 not working, then cold air is able to enter your home, which is not just a waste of energy, but can also lead to damp and mould, both of which are expensive to fix. Furthermore, both damp and mould can be harmful to health as they can create allergens and irritants that can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another sign of sealants that have begun to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a big distracting factor, especially if you live close to a busy road or noisy neighbors. This can impact your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home feels.

Finally, if the windows aren't opening and close easily, it's an indication that they need to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if the windows fail to open when required in an emergency such as an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A qualified window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your current windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts passing through your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to hold the glass panes together and help in insulating, however this can be damaged by changes in weather or by simply ageing. This causes cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, leading to drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be occurring is that the frame of your window is distorted and not sealing properly. In the result, moisture may get trapped within the frame, which will also cause rotting and draughts as time passes. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double glazing windows replacement-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 is escaping. This is a serious problem and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water entering your home, preventing heat from escaping and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a signal of needing to be replaced however they can affect the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in it, they could limit the amount of light let in and cause draughts. In addition, if there are deep cracks or chips on your windows, it's unlikely that they will be able to support the weight of a replacement double glazing window unit, which will require the creation of a new window frame.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It is important to keep energy costs as low as you can. High energy bills not only consume a significant portion of your budget, but they also put unnecessary strain on the environment, something that we all want to try and do less of. One of the biggest reasons for rising energy costs is leaky windows, which not only allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that require you to make use of more energy to heat your home. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows can help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.